Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain condition that gradually affects a person’s memory, thinking abilities, and behavior. Over time, it interferes with a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks, even the simplest ones. It is the most common cause of dementia among older adults.

Because Alzheimer’s develops slowly, the early signs can sometimes be mistaken for normal aging. Recognizing the symptoms early can help individuals and families seek proper care and support.

Common Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

While occasional forgetfulness can be normal, persistent changes in memory and behavior may indicate Alzheimer’s disease. Here are ten warning signs to watch for:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Difficulty planning or solving problems
• Trouble completing familiar tasks at home or work
• Confusion about time or place
• Difficulty understanding visual information or spatial relationships
• Problems finding the right words when speaking or writing
• Frequently misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
• Poor judgment or decision-making, especially regarding safety
• Withdrawal from social activities, hobbies, or work
• Noticeable changes in mood, personality, or behavior
  
  

If several of these symptoms appear consistently, it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Alzheimer’s Care

Physical therapy can play an important role in supporting individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease.

During the early and middle stages, physical therapists help patients maintain strength, balance, and mobility. This allows individuals to remain active and continue participating in daily activities at home and within their communities.

In the later stages of the disease, therapists focus on helping patients preserve as much independence as possible. They also provide guidance to family members and caregivers on safe movement, mobility support, and daily care techniques.

Physical therapists can also conduct home safety evaluations, identifying ways to reduce fall risks and create a safer living environment.

Managing Other Health Conditions

Many individuals with Alzheimer’s also develop other age-related conditions such as arthritis, bone fractures, and increased risk of falls. Physical therapists carefully consider how Alzheimer’s affects these conditions and create treatment plans that support overall mobility and safety.

Through proper guidance, exercise, and support, physical therapy can significantly improve quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and help families navigate the challenges that come with it.

Call to schedule your initial evaluation today! 

Our expert team of therapists at Reddy Care Physical, Occupational & Aquatic Therapy, with clinics across Long Island, Queens, and Manhattan are ready to help.

Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste.11, Great Neck, NY 11021  Tel. (516) 829.0030

Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735   Tel. (516) 420.2900

Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury, NY 11797   Tel. (516) 367.1111

Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729   Tel. (631) 243.0247

North Shore Towers: 272-78 Grand Central Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11005  Tel. (516) 344.0030

Bayside: Aquatic Therapy: 208-32 Cross Island Pkwy., Bayside, NY11360  Tel. (718) 224.8480

Oceanside: 2421 S Long Beach Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572  Tel. (516) 992.2282

New York City: 250 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025 Tel. (212) 580.0125

Bay Shore: 1470 Sunrise Highway Bay Shore NY, 11706 Tel:(631)-446.1480

Rockaway Beach - NEW LOCATION: 2-30 Beach 102nd Street, Suite 28, Rockaway Park, NY 11694 Tel. (718) 945.9575

 In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): Tel: (516) 829.0030 

*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan*

Sources: Resource 1 Resource 2 

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.