Alzheimer’s Awareness in Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton, PA

An estimated 6 million Americans are currently impacted by Alzheimer’s disease.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Did you know that June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month? Alzheimer’s disease, a type of dementia, is a brain disorder that impacts memory and thinking skills. Many people living with Alzheimer’s disease are over the age of 65. Alzheimer’s is known to get worse over time, eventually impacting the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). Alzheimer’s progression has been categorized into three stages: the early-stage, where it’s still possible to live independently, the middle-stage, and the late-stage, where symptoms are most severe and debilitating. The causes of Alzheimer’s are still being studied, but may include factors like:

• Age-related brain changes
• Gene changes
• Health and lifestyle factors like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity
• Environmental factors like pollutants

Alzheimer’s disease is named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer, who discovered abnormal clumps and bundles of fibers in the brain of a woman who had died of mental illness in 1906. Those clumps are now known as amyloid plaques, and the bundles of fibers as neurofibrillary tangles. Amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, along with a loss of neuron connections in the brain, are some of the main components of Alzheimer’s.

Are There Treatments for Alzheimer’s?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease at this time. However, the Alzheimer’s Association explains that there are treatments available that can reduce the rate of decline by removing beta-amyloid from the brain:

• Donanemab (Kisunla®): This is a type of IV infusion therapy administered every four weeks to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. This treatment is appropriate for those living with early Alzheimer’s who have confirmed amyloid plaques.
• Lecanemab (Leqembi®): Another type of IV therapy that can reduce the cognitive and functional decline that comes with Alzheimer’s for those in the early stages who have elevated beta-amyloid levels.

Additionally, there are medications for memory, cognition, and dementia-related behaviors, treatments for behavior, and treatments for changes in sleep habits.

Where Can I Find Alzheimer’s Resources?

Here are a few options where you can find dementia and Alzheimer’s support around the Lehigh Valley:

• The Alzheimer’s Association Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter serves Lehigh and Northampton Counties through education, resources, and advocacy. They have support groups for people navigating the early stages of dementia, as well as for Caregivers. If you need further support or assistance with a crisis, you can reach a dementia expert for free through their 24/7 helpline.
• The Lehigh Valley Dementia-Friendly Coalition (Dementia Friendly Lehigh Valley (DFLV)) is raising awareness of dementia and reducing the stigma around dementias like Alzheimer’s disease. You can find a directory of educational resources and services on their website. If you’re looking for a way to help, you can also donate to DFLV or sign up to volunteer.
• Lehigh Valley Health Network’s Fleming Memory Center specializes in treatment and care plans for geriatric patients with memory loss. Located in Allentown, their team provides physical exams and cognitive testing to assess how to best support you. They also have a variety of resources for Caregivers, including support groups, educational sessions, and social worker drop-in hours.

Can Griswold Help My Loved One With Dementia?

At Griswold, we’re proud to provide dementia care support for those at any stage of Alzheimer’s disease in and around Lehigh and Northampton Counties. Your live-in home Caregiver can reintroduce themselves each visit, help prepare meals, and facilitate cognitive activities to support memory. We can also provide respite care to dementia Caregivers who could use a break. Click the button below to reach out and learn more.