A few tips about how to approach the new year with Alzheimer’s
Let's try to respond to fear with courage in 2024
We’re a whole week into 2024 already, and is it just me, or is the year passing by quickly from the start? Regardless, 11 months are stretched out before us, and we don’t know exactly what they’ll bring.
If you’ve been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or are the caregiver of a loved one with this most common form of dementia, you may have an inkling of what to expect in the days ahead. However, because we don’t entirely know what the future holds, life can be scary.
During the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt stated in his inaugural address that, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” His words bolstered a fearful nation. When scary and bad things happen, fear is the natural response, but it can be crippling.
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment? Do you fear what may lie ahead in 2024? It’s natural to be afraid, but try not to allow fear to overwhelm your mind. Try to respond with courage.
Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but persevering despite it. Unfortunately, courage doesn’t seem to come to us as naturally as being afraid does. Fear may find us, but this year, let’s choose to seek out courage.
Developing a plan in 2024
If you or someone you loved has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, I would suggest starting by learning which treatments are available to potentially slow its progression. Speak with a medical professional who specializes in brain functioning and health.
You can also enlist a trusted friend or family member to join you in the fight. Perhaps they can accompany you to doctor appointments and assist in other tasks, as your health advocate. Before appointments, this person can help you write down questions to ask the doctor.
A local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association might also be a wonderful resource. You can call the association or access information on its website regarding which programs are available locally.
Plenty of other resources are available, too, such as this website, Alzheimer’s News Today.
While we’ll all certainly have hurdles to overcome in 2024, remember that not every day will be difficult. Try to embrace today, and take one day at a time — with courage. Embrace the joy that happens today, and then get up tomorrow and courageously do it again.
Happy “one day at a time” in 2024!
Note: Alzheimer’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Alzheimer’s News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Alzheimer’s disease.
About the Author
William Robbins
just a couple months ago my wife Rita was diagnose with early Alzheimer's trying to get into a trial clinic. We should know soon if she is a candidate for the trial clinic. the original interviewers sent in letter to DMV so she lost her driver's license and that's been a big deal. More deflating than anything. She forgets resent things not the past :
Looking to the future
Ray Burow
William,
I am sorry to hear about Rita's recent diagnosis. However, it's great that you're being proactive, and prayerfully she will be accepted into a clinical trial. Our family found a clinical trial to be extremely helpful for my mother. As you know, early diagnosis and treatment is key. I'm a bit surprised that she lost driving privileges in the early stages of the disease, and I'm sure it was devastating. The good news is, in the long run, it'll keep Rita safe. May God bless and sustain you both as you navigate a new normal. It's a difficult journey, but there are still joys ahead.
Ray Burow