June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. To increase awareness and assist those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementias, physical therapists across the nation are encouraging their families, guardians, and caregivers to opt for physical therapy services.

alzheimers and brain awareness month

Early Physical Therapy can increase mobility, ensure bones and muscle health, build core strength, improve balance, and reduce the risks associated with falls and physical injuries. Physical Therapy can help them remain functional as long as possible and lessen the risk of falls. Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy may be an effective 3 prong approach in the battle against Alzheimer’s.

As a physical therapist, you can help those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia. In an effort to increase awareness, you may bring Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness into your practice this month and keep it in your practice, year-round! You can get started on alz.org

alzheimer's and brain awareness month. take action from alz.org

visit alz.org

Alzheimer’s Disease – At a Glance

When most think of Alzheimer’s disease, they envision a highly debilitating illness that takes a person’s ability to think logically and remember details.

However, Alzheimer’s is much more than that.

It is also highly detrimental to a person’s ability to function appropriately. Once vivacious and active individuals that suffer from this condition often find themselves completely dependent upon the assistance of others. Out of all forms of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is considered to be the most common in terms of cognitive disabilities and is directly responsible for up to 80% of all dementia-based cases.

The symptoms creep up slowly and worsen as time progresses. Many refer to Alzheimer’s as “old-timers”; however, this is an inaccurate description as more and more younger people – sometimes as young as the 30s – are starting to receive an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

Alzheimer’s at Its Core

Many mistakenly believe that Alzheimer’s disease is a natural part of the aging process; however, this is inaccurate. It is a progressive disease of the brain. That means that it gets worse as time passes. It is a condition that detrimentally impacts the region of the brain that learns and retains new information.

As the illness advances, sufferers may become suspicious, paranoid, experience mood changes, have behavioral changes, and experience physical issues such as problems talking, complications in swallowing, and challenges in walking.

Complications of the disease include – but, are not limited to – stroke, heart attack, kidney disease, infections, and organ failure. While physical therapists are unable to prevent the progression of the disease or cure the illness, they have the capability of helping slow it down, aiding a patient is staying mobile, and helping sufferers maintain a higher level of independence than if they did not have Alzheimer’s.

Physical therapy is quickly becoming the top-rated choice among total care health networks. Unlike volume-based care, value-based care customizes treatments according to the individual needs of a patient. If you want to truly help patients, advertise your services for Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Many families, guardians, and caregivers do not realize that they are highly advantageous.

For more information on succeeding as a physical therapist, total care, and related topics, visit us today at: https://coloradophysicaltherapynetwork.com/

Read Part 2 of this Article Here

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