Living with an Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis

Getting an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis is life-changing. It can be difficult and cause feelings of isolation. Whether you or a senior loved one has been diagnosed, it’s normal to feel several emotions. Below are a few ways that might help you and your loved ones cope with an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis.

If You Aren’t Sure, Ask Questions

As with any other diagnosis that carries weight, learning more about Alzheimer’s disease can help you and loved ones to feel better and more confident in your care, treatment, and overall wellbeing. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, but there are still several different treatment options that can help you with the symptoms of the disease as it progresses. In the beginning, you may be too filled with different emotions to take in much information. This is where your loved ones can step in and help. Allow someone you trust to come to appointments with you and take notes that you can reference later. Ask any and every question that comes into your mind no matter how small or unimportant you may think the question is. If you aren’t sure what to ask, take a look through these frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s disease.

Know That Your Feelings Are Valid

This is not a disease that is easy to handle alone. You will need the help of loved ones who can support you and help care for you. How you share the diagnosis with friends and family is entirely up to you. It may be tempting to try to hide your diagnosis for as long as possible, but being honest with those who are closest to you as early as possible will help to alleviate some of the emotional stress that you have just taken on.

The talk that you have with loved ones may be uncomfortable and riddled with different emotions. Some of the more common emotions that people feel when they first receive an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis are:

  • Anger
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Fear
  • Loss
  • Denial
  • Sadness
  • Shock
  • Resentment
  • Grief

Know that it’s completely normal to feel any of the emotions listed above. It’s also normal to feel emotions that have not been addressed. Your feelings are yours, and they are valid. Rather than question your emotions, let them run their course. Keep an open channel between you and your loved ones, and talk out your feelings if necessary.

 

 

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