Information for the person with dementia

The Alzheimer Society aims to provide information to help people living with dementia. Whether you are newly diagnosed, in the early, middle, or late stage, of dementia or just want learn more about the disease, we’re here to help.

Impact of Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease eventually affects all aspects of a person’s life. While everyone is different, in general, the disease will affect mental abilities, emotions and moods, behaviour, and physical abilities.

Mental abilities

Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia can affect a person’s communication, decision-making, and thought-processing abilities.

This may include:

• Trouble remembering or understanding others
• Confusion
• Difficulty performing simple tasks
• Poor judgement

Emotions and moods

Dementia can affect the way a person experiences and expresses emotions.

This may include:

• Appearing uninterested and apathetic
• Losing interest in things you once enjoyed
• Becoming more withdrawn

Behaviour

A person with dementia may start reacting different to his environment.

This may include:

• Repeating the same action or words
• Hiding possessions
• Physical outbursts
• Restlessness

Physical abilities

The disease can affect a person’s physical coordination and mobility, leading to a gradual physical decline.
This may include trouble with:

• Eating
• Bathing
• Getting dressed

Treatment options

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are therapies and medicines that can help with symptoms.

Some examples of medicines include:

• Cholinesterase inhibitors
• Memantine Hydrochloride

Other treatment options:

• Complementary and alternative health care
• Clinical trials

Talk to your local Alzheimer Society or health-care professional for more information about the treatment options that are available to you.

Support

There are many support groups for people with dementia. Your local Alzheimer Society is a great resource for finding support services in your area. You can also check out our Message Board and Creative Space areas to connect with people who are sharing the same experiences as you.