September is World Alzheimer’s Month, a time to raise awareness about the most common form of dementia and the impact it has on families everywhere. Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 5 million Americans over the age of 65, and nearly two-thirds of those diagnosed are women. While age is the strongest risk factor, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, and it can affect people earlier in life as well.
For families in Texas, the need for awareness is especially significant. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that more than 400,000 Texans live with Alzheimer’s, and that number is expected to grow as the population ages. In Southeast Texas, families across Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, and surrounding communities are seeing firsthand how the disease changes daily life.
Understanding the signs and knowing when to seek help can make all the difference in supporting a loved one.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that causes memory loss, confusion, and changes in thinking and behavior. It occurs when abnormal proteins build up in the brain, interfering with nerve cell function and eventually causing those cells to die.
In its early stages, symptoms may be mild, such as misplacing items or forgetting names. Over time, the disease can affect the ability to manage household tasks, recognize family members, or even carry out basic activities like dressing and eating.
Although there is currently no cure, treatments, routines, and support systems can slow progression, ease stress, and improve quality of life for both patients and caregivers.
Common Warning Signs
Recognizing the early signs of Alzheimer’s helps families get care sooner and prepare for the future. Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as repeating questions or forgetting recent conversations
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks, like following a recipe or paying bills
- Language struggles, including forgetting words or losing track in conversations
- Getting lost in familiar places, such as while driving or walking on a well-known route
- Judgment and decision-making changes, such as risky behavior or poor safety awareness
- Personality and mood changes, including agitation, apathy, or social withdrawal
If symptoms appear suddenly or worsen in hours or days, seek immediate medical care. This may indicate another acute condition, not Alzheimer’s itself.
Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s develops gradually, progressing through seven stages:
- Stage 1. No symptoms — risk may be identified through family history or testing
- Stage 2. Very mild memory loss — occasional forgetfulness
- Stage 3. Mild decline — noticeable lapses in memory or concentration
- Stage 4. Moderate decline — trouble with tasks like managing finances or remembering recent events
- Stage 5. Moderately severe decline — needing help with daily activities
- Stage 6. Severe decline — significant memory loss and behavioral changes, requiring full caregiver support
- Stage 7. Very severe decline — loss of speech, recognition, and independence
Not every individual follows these stages exactly, but understanding them helps families prepare for the level of care required.
Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be challenging, but there are ways to make daily life safer and less stressful:
- Establish routines to provide comfort and reduce confusion
- Use visual cues such as calendars, sticky notes, or labeled drawers
- Encourage safe, simple activities like walking, music, or folding laundry
- Focus on communication with short phrases, eye contact, and patience
- Stay calm and reassuring when frustrations arise
Caregivers should also seek support for themselves. Local caregiver support groups, respite care, and counseling in Southeast Texas can help prevent burnout and provide connection.
Treatment and Support
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but a combination of medications, therapies, and healthy routines can help:
- Medications may improve memory or manage behavioral symptoms
- Exercise and nutrition support overall health and may slow decline
- Social interaction reduces isolation and supports brain health
- A calm, structured environment promotes daily comfort
Early diagnosis matters. It gives families more time to plan care, connect with community resources, and explore clinical trials that may offer additional support.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Alzheimer’s usually progresses gradually, but certain situations require immediate medical attention. These include:
- Sudden worsening of confusion or memory
- Signs of dehydration or malnutrition
- Injuries from falls
- Unexplained pain, fever, or new medical symptoms
Having an emergency plan provides peace of mind. Knowing where to go and who to call ensures loved ones get prompt, compassionate care when urgent needs arise.
Support for Families in Southeast Texas
World Alzheimer’s Month is a reminder that dementia affects not just patients, but entire families. Awareness, early recognition, and caregiver support are key to navigating this journey with compassion.
For families in Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, and communities across Southeast Texas, resources are available through local support groups, medical specialists, and caregiver programs. And when emergencies happen, families can feel confident knowing expert care is close by, 24/7.