Living with Alzheimer's Disease

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By Katie Ussin

Story Published: Jun 15, 2009 at 5:50 PM MST

Story Updated: Jun 15, 2009 at 7:41 PM MST

BILLINGS - Alzheimer's is a progressive and fatal disease of the brain, and with an aging baby boomer population, health officials expect the number of cases to explode in the coming years.

Helene Burke, 87, loves her visits from her great grand-daughter Haley.
"I see her a lot and we get along great, and she's funny and laughs all the time," said Haley.

Yet there is a cruel thief that threatens to steal their precious time together, Alzheimer's Disease.

It is estimated that 1-in-8 people age 65 and older will have the disease, and 1-in-2 age 85 and older.

Suzanne Belser, executive director of the Alzheimer's Association Montana Chapter, said early diagnosis is important.

"There are so many things that can mimic it; Parkinson's Disease, thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies," said Belser.
Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia and it destroys brain cells causing problems with memory, behavior, thinking and life-style habits.

"Every single person is affected differently," said Belser.

Helene's family said they first noticed something was wrong two years ago when she started to hallucinate; believing someone was peering in through her windows, and mistaking spilled cat food for a bug infestation.

Her family moved her into the memory care unit at Marquis Vintage Suites in Billings. "I think the best way families can deal with it is by educating themselves," said Belser. "The more you know about it and what's actually happening I think that's the most important."

There is no cure for Alzheimer's Disease. Belser said there is a genetic component to it and they are seeing people being diagnosed earlier in life, in their 40's and 50's. She said the best preventative care is to keep your brain active.

"Do crossword puzzles, Sudoku puzzles, brush your teeth with the other hand, just anything to create new synapsis," she said.
It is also important to provide your loved one living with the disease with plenty of social interaction and love.

The memory walk is September 27 in Billings. It is a fundraiser for the Alzheimer's Association that benefits research and the hunt for a cure for Alzhiemer's.

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