A senior man and woman sitting on the ground in a park with their grandson.

Life after Diagnosis

If you or a loved one has received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, you may be feeling overwhelmed. You and your family will need time for the diagnosis to sink in and to prepare emotionally, financially, and practically for this progressive and terminal disease.

This is a difficult time, but it’s helpful to know about the condition once a formal diagnosis has been made. Many people with Alzheimer’s feel a sense of relief when the news or understanding of their condition is finally out in the open.

You and your family may be better able to prepare yourselves and live much more fully after accepting the terminal nature of the disease. There will be time ahead to continue enjoying life and pleasurable activities, even if it’s in a different way, and to make important plans and decisions with loved ones.

Senior men talking.

Gathering more information can help relieve your anxiety and stress. Learning, knowing what to expect, and sharing thoughts and information with loved ones, others who have the disease, and professionals can help you feel more in control and better able to take advantage of current treatments and assistance.

 



How to Cope with Your Disease

After adjusting to the new diagnosis and preparing for the future, you can focus on living and coping with the disease. In this section, you’ll find:

  • A checklist of steps to take to improve the Alzheimer patient’s home and personal safety.
  • News on recreation and quality of life and how physical and mental activities can enhance everyday life
  • A look at family and relationships and the challenges, emotions, and commitments family members will encounter
  • A reminder on employment and income to check with your current employer for eligibility under federal and state plans or benefits programs
  • A list of helpful resources including the organizations, people, and services that may help you build a support network
Three senior men sitting on a bench outdoors.
Find an Online Caring Community

Lotsa Helping Hands

Lotsa Helping Hands powers online caring communities that help restore health and balance to caregivers’ lives.

Our service brings together caregivers and volunteers through online communities that organize daily life during times of medical crisis or caregiver exhaustion in neighborhoods and communities worldwide. Caregivers benefit from the gifts of much-needed help, emotional support, and peace of mind, while volunteers find meaning in giving back to those in need.

Lotsa Helping Hands makes it easy to ask family and friends to help. This online tool provides a free private group calendar for caregivers, friends, family members, and other volunteers. The calendar helps them coordinate the dates and times when they will help with caregiving duties, such as preparing meals, providing rides or running errands.

Don't miss out.

Receive Alzheimer's breakthrough news, research updates, and expert advice.