As people in Georgia and across the country age, it is common to have some memory slip-ups now and then. Many people lose their train of thought or misplace their keys, and typically, it is not any cause for concern. However, some older people may have memory problems and other cognitive issues come up too often to be normal, and after a medical diagnosis, they may learn that they have Alzheimer’s disease.
Receiving this diagnosis can certainly throw anyone for a loop. Some people may think that they cannot have the disease because they still have plenty of good days where their cognitive issues do not hinder them. As individuals learn more about their diagnosis, they may find that having good days is the case with many people when first diagnosed with this disease, but over time, those good days become few and far between.
Though it can be upsetting to learn about having such a serious condition, it does not have to be paralyzing. If anything, it could spur individuals into taking important action. They may find that they need to schedule regular medical appointments with their care providers to ensure that they understand their options for combating the disease and may even want to find support groups for those facing similar diagnoses.
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can also put Georgia residents in the position of needing to ensure that their estate planning documents are completed and up to date. Taking this step soon after a diagnosis may better ensure that the person still has enough cognitive ability to make sound decisions regarding their desired health care, who they want in charge of important decisions later on and what they want in regard to long-term care. Knowing that these measures are in place could bring some peace of mind to a difficult ordeal.
