Frisco, TX, April17, 2017 – Finding out a loved one has been diagnosed with a memory disorder in its early stages can leave families feeling lost and more than a little overwhelmed. Many are likely to find themselves bombarded with information from healthcare providers, and facts and figures they search on their own. Obtaining expert guidance is a must, but so too is taking meaningful steps to assist the loved one as much as possible.

“Memory disorders are progressive, often incurable conditions, that can leave loved ones and their families unsure of what to do or where to turn,” says Trent Quinn, founder, president and CEO of The Cottages. “In the earliest stages, there are several important steps families can take to help their loved ones and potentially better position themselves for what the future may hold.”

Taking these three actions can be helpful for families and their loved ones:

· Work closely with healthcare providers – At the onset of a memory disorder, such as Alzheimer’s disease, working with healthcare providers to learn more about the condition, its signs, symptoms and how best to help a loved is important. Families may find, for example, that medications are available to potentially slow the progression. While these are not cures, they may help buy loved ones and their families precious time.

· Address financial and legal issues – It is often strongly recommended that families begin the process of addressing legal and financial matters while a loved one is still in the early stages of a memory disorder. Finding out about advanced care directives, insurance policies, mortgages, deeds and so on can provide caregivers the information they need to provide care down the road.

· Plan for the future – Thinking about the future can be difficult when a loved one is living with a memory disorder, but it is an important step to take. It can be very helpful, for example, for loved ones to state their long-term care wishes sooner rather than later. It is also helpful to consider residential placement options in the early stages should they be needed later. Loved ones are often able to play an active role in the selection process during the early stages, which can provide families greater peace of mind if or when full-time residential care is needed.

“Providing meaningful assistance for a loved one living with a memory disorder is a concern for many families,” says Quinn. “Oftentimes the best help families can provide involves being involved in their care and taking an active role in helping them plan for the future.”

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