Have just been to doctor and accepting that I have a memory problem. Are there others like me out there? What problems are we going to experience. Am finding using this web site a new challenge. Had to ask for help from AA on how to log in etc. Any advice from those like me on how we live out our lives with dignity and respect for others. Thanks

MToddL,
Hello and welcome. I'm sorry for what brings you here. This is a great support site to ask questions, get assistance and learn from others. This is a wonderful, caring group of people!
You don't state how old you are, how severe is your memory problem, or have you had to stop working or driving?
As for me, I'm 54, have had to give up a career in Nursing, and find a new way to stay whole! Personally, I have had to adjust my thinking a bit and be kinder and more forgiving of myself because of my deficits. At first, I was shocked, angry, depressed! I thought my life was over but it wasn't. I got help thru the Alz. Assn, my daughter & I went to speak with a counselor there. She gave us hope, direction, information and support!! The Alz assn is filled with lots of wonderful, helpful people!
I plan to start volunteering at my local Alz Assn and at a local animal shelter. I am on Long term Disability at this time and awaiting an answer from Social Security Disability.
The main thing is to take one day at a time. I am currently on namenda 2 x day and an exelon patch daily. I, also, take many supplements, play my NintendoDS memory games daily to keep my mind from being lazy.

I hope this helps a little.

Please come to this site often, read, post, listen, and ask as many questions as you need to!

Peace And Hope,

I think more needs to be known about how bad your cognitive problems are and what diagnosis was given? Have you been put on meds?
memory exercises are great, but recent research with mice has shown that physical activity is even more significant.

MTodd, welcome and you have found a great community! I do agree with Mimi, do you know more about your memory problems, meds, diagnosis, etc? Whatever it is we are here to help you. Look forward to hearing more.

Thanks Have been on aracept for 6 days and am going back to dr today. going to alzheimers group today as well - we are fortunate that there are both caregivers and patients who atttend our group. Thanks for your note. It is comforting to have discussions with with someone have a similar experience. I dont need bunch of sympathy but do need to exchange with people - how do we say - peers? patients? what do we refere to ourselves in the collective? I dont think of my self as a "patient" Am aware of most everything in my environment and try to keep up with it. How are you doing? What has the progression been? What have you learned about the process you would want to share with a "peer". Thanks much MToddL

MToddL, I've wondered what to call myself, too. At my doctors' offices I'm a "patient." Certainly I'm a "victim" of Alzheimer's, but that's a bad way to identify oneself. Since it's an ongoing illness, can't call myself "survivor." Could say "living with Alzheimer's," but that doesn't roll off the tongue very well. I'd like to hear someone's ideas, too.

The Chosen?? Thanks MToddL

Hi Todd, you've been on meds for about 6 weeks. Todd:
How's it going? Can you tell any difference? It may take awhile. Also how about side effects? How's your sleep compared to before?

Also important. Are you also coping with any other illnesses ... long term or otherwise?

Have you possibly increased your exercise regime? Do you enjoy Sudokus or crossword puzzles?

You write well and that's a positive!

Mimi sorry for the delay in responding I am sleeping well, should be more phy active, not much wrong with me am blessed. Something I think I have concluded - telling family members who are not ever going to be involved in my life does not work so well - they get - apparently choaked up - stop discussing real topics - want to know "how are you doing" "are you still taking you medication" but the real shariing seems to stop and I feel very much alone even more so. Write back MToddL

How about a person with dementia? I think that sums it up. That is what I say when I talk to others.

My sister just called me about this news story. This is a study they are doing at St. Louis University regarding Alzheimer's Disease. I am hoping this will give us all some hope.
http://www.myfoxstl.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail;jsessionid=CD589573E7B51A92AFF74329859C367F?contentId=6836702&version=2&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=1.1.1&sflg=1

Hello, I am CeeCee an 82 year old Brit living with daughter in NC for the past 2 years, 10 days ago I was told after tests that I had dementia,put on Exelon patch which seems to help my word slurring and fumbling for words.Since this happened my dear daughter who has just nursed me through a broken hip and pelvis has avoided the subject,any ideas as to how I can introduce a conversation,,I want her to help me in this and state her obervation.Find all your questions and comments most helpful.

Hi Cee Cee,
I'm glad you've found this site.
You're daughter may still be in a state of shock and disbelief. Probably you need to be open with her by telling her this is a topic you need to discuss with her. What does she see as your strengths and weaknesses? There are decisions you need to make regarding your medical and finances. Are you getting PT for your hip and pelvis? if after the therapy is over, can you get on some kind of a maintenance regime to increase your over all stamina. new research claims that physical activity is even more important then mental exercise in promoting brain health. please keep in touchy

MimiS
Thank you for replying,did mention the Exelon patch today,she responded by saying she had noticed some improvement in my communication skills, also said no one had mentioned Alzheimer,I pointed out that I was researching dementia for my own benefit and was directed to this site.
Maybe she will ask for the site address, I will keep praying as we handle this together.