Ask Miriam – January 2024
Dear Miriam,
I am 78 years old and was recently told that I have early stage Alzheimer’s disease. My wife died a little over a year ago, and I have just gotten back into life again, so this comes as a terrible blow. My doctor told me I should consider not driving anymore, and I can’t believe this is happening, but I am trying to adjust to the reality. I have been reading about the fact that Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, but there is a tiny bit of hope that new medications have come out which could potentially help maintain my current cognitive abilities longer. I am terrified of what the future may hold. Is there any way I can still drive? What do you think I should do to prepare?
—Preparing for Life
Dear Preparing for Life,
I’m glad you reached out, and I’m so sorry you are going through this. It’s important to give yourself some time to adjust to the idea of having Alzheimer’s. The disease progresses differently for everyone, so it helps to prepare thoroughly but also to take time to enjoy the present.
This is definitely an exciting time in the world of Alzheimer’s research and the first disease modifying medication is available for some people with Alzheimer’s. It’s not for everyone, though, and the best way for you to find out if you qualify for it is to talk with your doctor or ask for a referral to a neurologist. While there is one drug available now, we are optimistic that others will follow soon.
Since you are in an early stage of the disease, it is essential to know that there are several things you can do to improve your quality of life and make plans for the future, that don’t involve medication. Among the most important are completing your legal and financial documents. This way, you will be able to choose how you want to live your life as the dementia progresses. Ask yourself, where do you want to live when you are no longer able to be independent? Who do you want to take care of you when the symptoms become more severe? Are you able to arrange finances for in-home care or assisted living? Who do you trust and want to decide on your future medical care? Many people create a trust, which an elder law attorney can help you with, and complete a form for Power-of-Attorney which will name the person who will make decisions for you.
Surround yourself with support, reach out to those friends and family that you already have a bond with, and let them know as much as you feel comfortable telling them. Join a support group for people with early stage dementia, so that you will have people to talk to who relate to your experiences. Consider seeing a therapist to help you deal with the feelings of loss or depression. Keep up with activities that you enjoy and try to spend time socializing with others.
Make sure to get enough sleep, maintain a healthy diet, and exercise as best you can. To minimize confusion, it may be helpful to create a routine that you follow and to have a system of reminders to aid you with forgetfulness. Talk to your doctor about medications. There are clinical studies that you may be able to participate in, and as you mentioned, medications can be helpful in the early stages.
Safety is important, and that is likely why your doctor encouraged you to discontinue driving. Sign up for a driving assessment, usually offered through hospitals or occupational therapists, to determine whether you still have the memory, cognitive function, and reaction time necessary to drive safely. Reassess frequently and keep the lines of communication open with your doctor.
Know that you do not have to go through life with Alzheimer’s alone. Take it a step at a time and give yourself grace. For more information about the early stages dementia, contact the Alzheimer’s Los Angeles Helpline at 844-435-7259, or visit our Life After Diagnosis page.
Best,
Miriam
Questions for Miriam can be sent to askmiriam@alzla.org.