Is Alzheimer’s disease a part of your daily reality? If so, did you know that your pharmacist can make a difference?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder affecting brain capacity. Its signs and symptoms usually develop gradually. They include memory loss, difficulty speaking or performing daily tasks, and difficulty with orientation or recognizing familiar faces or objects, and so on. These manifestations eventually prevent a person from functioning optimally.
It is normal to feel overwhelmed after receiving a diagnosis for Alzheimer's disease. Feelings of helplessness and uncertainty often set in. The best way to cope with this is to find out as much as possible on the subject and speak to people you trust. Strong family, social, and professional support is essential to help you maintain your confidence, health, independence, and quality of life.
Pharmacists are front-line healthcare professionals recognized for their accessibility, availability, and skill. They can answer many questions and meet the health needs of those living with chronic illness. Let’s see how pharmacists can make day-to-day life easier for people living with Alzheimer's disease.
Medication for Alzheimer’s does not stop the disease, but rather slows its progression. It can also reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. For a person starting to take this type of medication, it is important to understand its practical benefits and know how to monitor response to treatment. Pharmacists can shed light on these questions.
Additionally, pharmacists can provide information about dosage, warnings, and drug interactions. They can also inform you about potential side effects and help you monitor them. You can speak to them promptly in the event of adverse effects, and they will help you manage them, or change the treatment if needed.
Treatment adherence is a major challenge in the management of a chronic illness, especially with Alzheimer's disease. Frequent forgetfulness, difficulty getting organized, misplaced or lost items are just some of the factors that can hinder medication adherence. In order for Alzheimer’s medication to be fully effective, it must be taken properly every day.
It’s not uncommon for a person to also be treated for several other chronic conditions (i.e., high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, etc.). Adherence to these treatments is often key and should be monitored closely. Moreover, taking medication can also involve some risk such as in the event of misuse or overdose.
Fortunately, pharmacists can recommend a range of services and measures to facilitate access to medication and ensure that it is taken safely and optimally. Here are some examples.
Pharmacies offer a wide range of products and services that can help older people, including those facing special challenges, meet their needs in terms of convenience and health management. Your pharmacist can help identify these needs and the ways to meet them.
Here are some examples of interesting products and services.
For additional information on maintaining the well-being, health, and quality of life of people living with Alzheimer's disease, remember that your pharmacist is always there for you, and your loved ones!
