Frisco, TX, Feb. 23, 2017 – A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is life-changing to be sure. There are steps, however, that people living with the disease and their loved ones can take to make the road ahead a little less perilous to navigate. While there is no known cure for this progressive disease that is estimated to affect more than 5 million Americans, there are ways people diagnosed and their families can take some control in the earliest stages of the condition.

“After the initial shock of the diagnosis passes, it is during the first phases that people living with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones can take action to make certain plans for the future are carefully laid out and that wishes are made known,” explains Trent Quinn, founder, president and CEO of The Cottages. “As symptoms progress, it will become increasingly important for caregivers to be armed with information that will enable them to honor a loved one’s wishes.”

People living with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones can take action following diagnosis by considering the following steps:

· Exploring treatment options – While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are some medical interventions that may slow its progression for a time. Speaking with a doctor about these options may provide families and their loved one with more precious time.

· Tying up loose ends – An appointed caregiver or caregivers will need to know information about health insurance policies, long-term care coverage, life insurance and the location of such documents as birth and marriage certificates, mortgage or deed paperwork, wills and so on. If a power of attorney and advanced directives have not been drawn up, doing so after diagnosis is often advised.

· Discussing the future – Families can help themselves by speaking openly and honestly about how to proceed, if and when, symptoms progress. Loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease, for example, may have very specific requests related to long-term care. If the need for residential assistance is anticipated, as is often the case, touring facilities while the loved one can still play a role in decision-making can be very helpful.

“The future is very uncertain for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones,” says Quinn. “Preparing as much as possible can help families make decisions down the road with the confidence that comes from knowing wishes have been respected.”

For more information about The Cottages and the services it provides, visit it online at Alzcottages.com.

About The Cottages

The Cottages is dedicated to care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. The Cottage concept provides a home-like environment tailored to meet individual needs based on physical, mental and emotional needs. The Cottages offers all-inclusive pricing with no level of care charges and all care and services are included. The Cottages currently has locations in Frisco, Round Rock, League City and Amarillo, Texas. The Cottages has been operating in Texas since 1997 and is family owned and operated by The Cottages Senior Living.

Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and The Cottages difference at www.alzcottages.com