The
Hilton Head Sun
PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID BLUFFTON, SC PERMIT NO. 135 POSTAL CUSTOMER
July 3, 2024 • Volume 27, Issue 7 • Complimentary • HiltonHeadSun.com
Love and Living with Dementia BY EARLE EVERETT Contributor Mild Cognitive Impairment, MCI, is described as a more rapid loss of one’s short-term memory as compared with normal memory decline that we all experience during aging. Simply stated, MCI can be described as early onset of dementia, a general term to describe a decline in memory retention and later, motor skills that may interfere with daily life. It develops in stages with 6080% of the cases advancing to Alzheimer’s, a disease that is affecting an increasing number of Americans. In our 68th year of marriage, we want to share with you some constructive suggestions that have helped make our journey a more pleasant, happier experience. First, understand that dementia, just like diabetes, presently has no cure. Early clinical detection, prescription medications and supplements as well as life changing adjustments can help. Personally, my wife and I are convinced that the steps we have taken have contributed to slowing down her memory loss. Those include physical activities such as golf, tennis, swimming, biking, walking, gardening and aerobic exercises, social interaction such as singing in
Earle & Nancy Everett a choir, dancing, word puzzles, games and diet recommendations from the Neu-
rologist, family acknowledgement and involvement, and a genuine loving part-
nership. Finally, for spouses and those who have a relationship with a care receiver, don’t attempt to ‘go at it alone,’ get professional help, expand your knowledge, volunteer at Memory Matters, etc., while maintaining a positive attitude. Our life together continues to evolve with its challenges, most importantly with understanding and love. A recent, featured publication in AARP’s magazine stated that “6.7 million people, 65 years or older, are living with Alzheimer’s today.” Further signs that dementia is progressing include a declining mental state, deteriorating physical health, decreasing ability to perform basic activities, concern for physical safety and a weakening immune system. The most common cause of death is pneumonia by infection. The Alzheimer’s Association statistics state dementia begins 20 years or more before memory loss is detected for 1/3 of people age 85 or older. 6.9 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, which kills more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. One in three seniors die with Alzheimer’s disease.
DEMENTIA CONT. ON PAGE 3A
Hilton Head Baseball, Softball Dominate District 8A
Digging into Summer at The Sandbox
33A
Summer Camping Adventure: Essential Tips for Fun and Safety Under the Stars 43A
Rarely Seen Century Plant Blooming on Hilton Head 50A