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Recognizing early signs of Alzheimer's and Dementia on World Alzheimer's Day
KATU • • health
Key Points:
- Monday is World Alzheimer’s Day, aimed at raising awareness and reducing stigma around Alzheimer’s and dementia, which affect over 55 million people worldwide.
- Wanda Wooten from Right at Home in Northeast Portland highlighted early warning signs such as frequent memory lapses disrupting daily life, missed bills, forgotten conversations, and difficulty finding words.
- Wooten advised families to approach conversations about memory concerns calmly and privately, using specific examples rather than broad accusations, and to initiate discussions before a crisis occurs.
- Simple home safety measures include removing or securing throw rugs, installing grab bars, improving lighting, using night lights, and keeping walkways clutter-free to support those with Alzheimer’s.
- Wooten emphasized the importance of compassion, encouraging families to "just love them for every day that they’re here."
