I have a patient that has had Alzheimer’s for almost twelve years. His wife thought that his disease should have taken his life by now making her a widow. When I began working with him he did look like his life was fading. He was weak, didn’t eat much and didn’t respond when addressed. He couldn’t do anything for himself. He had forgotten where the bedroom was, where the bathroom was. He couldn’t speak clear words or carry on any sort of conversation at all. His hair had turned completely white. I had begun to believe that he had only a year left in him at the most.

But working with him for the past two years, I’ve found positive changes in him. I can throw a small ball anywhere in his vicinity and he catches it. I call his name and he answers. He even speaks a complete sentence at times. He know’s where every room is and how to get to them. His hair is regaining color. He’s strong and can greet anyone with a healthy handshake. These days when he goes for a checkup, doctors can’t believe how healthy he is and how good he looks. When my patient is out with his wife she is complemented on how well her husband looks after battling Alzheimer’s for so long. Anyone that know’s about the disease says he’s a walking miracle.

I think there are a few keys to slowing the process of Alzheimer’s. I think if a person with the disease know’s that they are loved, they fight harder to stay in their right mind. I also believe that if that person is helped to stay active and using motor skills the decline in mental aptitude is slowed. It is said that reading and studying helps to keep Alzheimer’s away. I believe there is some truth in that. I also believe that a healthy appetite and drinking lots of water helps to counteract the disease. I’ve read studies that claim certain soft drinks to be linked to Alzheimer’s.

I guess what I’m trying to say here is, if there is anyone that know’s someone with Alzheimer’s, help them by loving them. Let them know that you care for them. Do as many activities as you can with them. Make them use their brain. Feed them well and hydrate them with lots of water. Don’t let them get stuck in a defeated attitude. Be a friend.