When it comes to diseases that affect the elderly, Alzheimer’s is one of the most challenging to deal with, especially when you don’t have professional help. At Sutton In-Home Care, we want you to understand as much about this disease as possible so that you can be better prepared to handle the results.

What is Alzheimer’s?

At its core, this disease is marked by brain cell failure. As the condition worsens, brain cells continue to fail, with symptoms that range from forgetfulness to full-blown dementia. In later stages, Alzheimer’s sufferers can’t retain any of their memories, and they can’t perform simple tasks. Also, you will notice drastic personality changes, including irritability and depression.

Unfortunately, scientists aren’t clear on what causes this disease or how it develops. Nonetheless, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of getting this disease.

Old Age

More than anything else, Alzheimer’s seems to affect people as they get older. The primary factor that will determine if you or your loved one is susceptible to the disease is their age. Over time, it will become more likely that he or she will get it.

Genetics

For the most part, genes can only increase the risk of getting Alzheimer’s, although scientists have discovered various genes that directly cause the disease. Fortunately, those are rare, so it’s unlikely that you or a loved one has them.

As far as risk genes are concerned, it appears that APOE-e4 is the gene with the highest correlation of Alzheimer’s. There are three other genes in the APOE-e category, but e4 is the one that is most prevalent in Alzheimer’s patients.

Family History

If people in your family have this condition, then there is a higher chance that you or a loved one will develop it eventually. The reason for this is that the risk genes are passed from one generation to another.

Contact Sutton In-Home Care

If a loved one has Alzheimer’s, you want to take action immediately before it gets worse. Having In-Home care for Alzheimer’s will help them deal with the effects of the disease, and it can provide you with peace of mind. Contact us today to find out how we can help.