Alzheimer’s disease devastated our family when my mom, at just 67, was diagnosed in 2010 and passed away two years later. Living through her journey opened my eyes in ways I could never have anticipated. Through this post, I hope to share those insights, supported by the innovative Alzheimer’s Module from Embodied Labs, which gave me a deeper understanding of what it might have felt like for her.

The Subtle Early Signs of Alzheimer’s

Reflecting back to a few years before my mom’s diagnosis, the early signs of Alzheimer’s were subtle but significant. Behavioral changes such as piles of unopened mail, multiple empty shampoo bottles, and groceries left unpacked were easy to dismiss. At first, I rationalized these as effects of living alone after my dad passed in 2000. However, post-diagnosis, these signs took on new meaning: they were survival strategies for someone unknowingly battling a fading memory. Recognizing the early signs of Alzheimer’s is crucial for timely intervention and care.

The Changing Dynamics at Family Gatherings

I vividly remember one Christmas when the impact of Alzheimer’s became undeniable. Our tradition of having lasagna on Christmas Eve almost came to a halt when my mom, who had made lasagna countless times, couldn’t recall the steps. That year, we created a new tradition—cooking together as a family. This shift in our routine was a reminder of the adaptability required when facing Alzheimer’s family dynamics. The disease reshapes the way families function and interact, requiring patience and understanding from everyone involved.

Virtual Reality: A Window Into Their World

My experience with the Alzheimer’s Module by Embodied Labs was transformative. It allowed me to step into the shoes of someone living with Alzheimer’s. Through this immersive virtual reality experience, I saw firsthand the confusion, isolation, and fear that accompanies the disease. The Alzheimer’s virtual reality experience underscored that patients are not just forgetful but are painfully aware of their reality slipping away. It offers caregivers like me a profound understanding of the emotional and psychological toll this disease takes on those affected.

The Power of Music in Alzheimer’s Care

One of the most poignant moments during my mom’s Alzheimer’s journey was discovering the calming effect of music. Whenever she felt agitated, music was the soothing balm that brought her peace. This personal experience was mirrored in the final video of the Alzheimer’s Module, where a woman’s spirit was revived during Christmas through the power of music. Music therapy for Alzheimer’s has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve mood for patients, offering a brief respite from the chaos of the disease. It was a powerful reminder that simple, non-invasive tools like music can have a profound impact on Alzheimer’s care.

Embracing the Role of a Caregiver

The Alzheimer’s caregiving journey is one I wouldn’t wish on anyone, but it has given me invaluable insight into what it means to care for someone in their most vulnerable moments. I’ve learned the importance of empathy, patience, and adaptability in Alzheimer’s patient support. Resources like the Caregiver Action Network have been instrumental in providing guidance and support for caregivers. If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, I strongly recommend exploring virtual reality training tools such as those offered by Embodied Labs, which can provide a deeper understanding of what your loved one is experiencing.

Get Involved and Educated in Alzheimer’s Care

For those looking to become more involved or educated in Alzheimer’s care, virtual reality modules like the Embodied Labs Alzheimer’s Module offer an unparalleled opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of this disease. Additionally, connecting with resources such as the Caregiver Action Network can help you find support, advice, and coping strategies to navigate the emotional impact of Alzheimer’s caregiving.

Though the journey is difficult, the growth and empathy you gain along the way can help make you a stronger, more compassionate caregiver. By utilizing these resources, you can better equip yourself to face the challenges that come with caregiving for someone with Alzheimer’s.