Memory care is crucial in senior living communities, especially for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. However, understanding how Alzheimer’s affects the brain is essential to develop effective treatments and provide better care for those affected. Contact our compassionate team at Buckner Villas by dialing 512.580.9882 to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, what part of the brain it affects first, how it affects the brain, and how memory care can help. If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, Buckner Villas is here to help. We offer memory care programs to help you or your loved ones maintain a better quality of life.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease that affects:
- Memory
- Thinking
- Behavior
It is a form of dementia, a decline in cognitive abilities. Alzheimer’s disease is progressive and will get worse over time. Initially, those with Alzheimer’s experience memory loss and confusion, but as the progression continues into advanced stages, it affects how people think, their behavior, how they move, and their ability to care for themselves. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia in older adults, affecting over 5 million Americans over 65. And while it typically affects individuals over 65, early-onset Alzheimer’s can affect individuals in their 50s or 60s.
What Part of the Brain Does Alzheimer’s Affect First?
Alzheimer’s affects the brain in several stages. The first stage typically involves the hippocampus, a part of the brain that plays a crucial role in memory and learning. As Alzheimer’s progresses, it affects other parts of the brain, including the cerebral cortex, responsible for language, perception, and consciousness, and the amygdala, responsible for emotions and social behavior. Eventually, Alzheimer’s can affect the entire brain, leading to complete cognitive and physical decline.
How Does Alzheimer’s Affect the Brain?
Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain by damaging and killing brain cells. Beta-amyloid proteins build up in the spaces between cells, forming plaques that interfere with neuron communication. Tau proteins clump together, forming tangles inside the neurons, disrupting the brain cells’ internal structure. This damage results in a loss of communication between neurons and, eventually, death of brain cells.
This damage to the brain cells leads to a decline in cognitive function. Individuals with Alzheimer’s may experience memory loss, difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion, mood swings, and withdrawal from social activities. As the disease progresses, individuals may lose the ability to communicate, become bedridden, and require round-the-clock care.
How Memory Care at Senior Living Communities Can Help
Memory care programs at senior living communities, such as Buckner Villas, are designed to provide personalized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Memory care programs focus on providing a supportive environment that promotes independence, individuality, and quality of life. These programs offer:
- 24-hour care
- Assistance with daily living activities
- Medication management
- Exercises designed to improve memory and cognitive function
- Social activities to promote independence and engagement
- Nutritious meals tailored to individual needs
Memory care communities are designed to be secure and provide a safe environment for individuals with Alzheimer’s. At Buckner Villas, our compassionate team understands the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our memory care specialists have the training and experience to provide personalized, comprehensive care that meets each resident’s needs.
Find a Senior Living Community with a Memory Care Program in Texas at Buckner Villas
Memory care programs at senior living communities, such as Buckner Villas, can offer personalized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Buckner Villas is here to help. Contact us today at 512.580.9882 to learn more about our memory care programs and how we can assist you or your loved one.