Light the World in Teal for Alzheimer’s Awareness

Light the World in Teal is an annual program held in November as part of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. People and places around the world “go teal” to raise awareness and show support for the millions of people affected by Alzheimer’s. This year’s Light the World in Teal takes place on November 4, 2021. Buildings around the world can register to Light Up in Teal for Alzheimer’s awareness.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s Disease is a type of dementia-causing problems with memory loss and other cognitive abilities. Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time. In the early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer’s, individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation. Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, where dementia symptoms gradually worsen over a number of years. Currently, there is not a cure for Alzheimer’s, but treatments for symptoms are available and clinical research continues.

What are the Stages of Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease is described as three stages early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe).

Early (Mild)
In this stage, people may:
• Forget words or misplace objects
• Forget something they just read
• Ask the same question over and over
• Have increasing trouble making plans or organizing
• Not remember names when meeting new people

Middle (Moderate)
In this stage, people may have:
• Increased memory loss and confusion
• Problems recognizing family and friends
• Continuously repeating stories, favorite wants (e.g., foods, places, songs, etc.), or motions
• Decreased ability to perform complex tasks (e.g., planning dinner) or handle personal finances (e.g., paying bills)
• Lack of concern for hygiene and appearance
• Requiring assistance in choosing proper clothing to wear for day, season, or occasion

Late (Severe)
In this stage, there is almost total memory loss. The individual may:
• Recognize faces but forget names
• Mistake a person for someone else
• Delusions—such as thinking he/she needs to go to work — may set in,
even though he/she no longer has a job
• There is a strong need for holding something close for tactile stimulation, nurturing, companionship and comfort
• Basic abilities such as eating, walking, and sitting up fade during this period; the individual may no longer recognize when he is thirsty or hungry and will need help with all basic activities of daily living.

It is important to note that Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging, and it is important to look for signs like these that might indicate Alzheimer’s disease versus basic forgetfulness or other conditions. With Alzheimer’s disease, these symptoms gradually increase and become more persistent.

If you or a loved one are experiencing memory issues, contact a neurologist today at First Choice Neurology. Be sure to visit our Memory Cafe and read our blogs about new advances in Alzheimer’s disease.