Millions of individuals today are caring for aging family members

Millions of individuals today are caring for aging family members with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. In fact, more than five million Americans now have Alzheimer's disease, which destroys brain cells and causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. One of the best things caregivers can do is to learn what they can about the disease. Here are some of the basics:

- The symptoms of Alzheimer's vary from person to person but include gradual memory loss, a decrease in a person's ability to perform familiar tasks, disorientation, difficulty learning new skills, loss of language skills, impaired judgment and personality changes. If you recognize any of these symptoms in a loved one (especially progressive changes) do not dismiss them as part of the normal aging process. They are signs that your loved one needs to be evaluated for Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

- In seeking a cause and cure, researchers have identified three definite risk factors: age, family history and genetics. Age is the greatest risk factor and the vast majority of people who have Alzheimer's disease are older than 65. Family history and genetics also play a role, as scientists have observed that Alzheimer's patients are more likely to have a relative with the disease.

- Those with Alzheimer's disease may eventually fail to recognize family members and people they've known for many years; may repeat stories or actions monotonously; might even invent words, making communication difficult; hygiene is often neglected and assistance with personal care is required.

- Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disease and is not currently curable.

- Consult your doctor if your loved one:

- Asks the same question over and over again.

- Repeats the same story, word for word, again and again.

- Forgets how to do activities that were previously done with ease and regularity (e.g., how to cook, play cards, etc.).

- Gets lost in familiar surroundings or misplaces household objects.

- Neglects to bathe or wears the same clothes again and again.

- Relies on somebody else, such as a spouse, to make decisions or answer questions that previously would have been handled alone.