What I Did After my Alzheimer’s Diagnosis: 3 Tips from Someone Who has Been There

By Lee Belanger

Four years ago, my world shifted when I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. At age 79, I was busy volunteering in a library, a thrift shop and giving lectures on Florida wildlife. Then one morning I couldn’t remember how to start my 3-year-old instant pot. I knew immediately this was not normal aging. 

My heart raced but I quickly remembered my mom’s advice, “Worry doesn’t solve anything. Attack the problem.” So, I did. I saw my doctor and had a memory screen which ultimately led to my Alzheimer’s diagnosis. 

Upon diagnosis, I took action to improve my life for the better. For those who have been recently diagnosed, here are three things I found helpful. 

1. Join a clinical trial. I was accepted in a local Alzheimer’s clinical study. The medical staff helped me understand the disease. I learned how exercise, including strength and balance training, could help along with following a healthier diet, so I made these lifestyle changes. You can find a local trial through the Alzheimer’s Association at Alz.org/TrialMatch. 
2. Make lifestyle changes. Studies have shown that following certain healthy habits can reduce your risk for cognitive decline and improve your quality of life. Reading how hearing loss can increase memory issues, I made sure my hearing aids were still working well. I make sure I walk two miles a day, not always all at once. I lift appropriate size weights, I use the treadmill and follow the Mediterranean diet while being sure I have enough protein. I make sure I have plenty of sleep too. 
3. Volunteer. At first, I kept my diagnosis hidden but soon realized sharing what I had learned could benefit others. Seeing how surprised my family and friends were hearing about my Alzheimer’s diagnosis, the importance of early memory screening, and lifestyle changes, motivated me to continue spreading Alzheimer’s awareness. I am relentless in urging others to treat any memory issues as seriously as other diseases like cancer or heart disease. Specifically, to see their doctor immediately if they have memory issues and seek the best-known treatment. Now, at 83, I remain committed to volunteering, shifting my focus to spreading Alsheimer’s awareness, and supporting those with Alzheimer’s in my community. To learn more about volunteering, visit Alz.org/Volunteer or join a webinar with the Florida Chapters on the first Thursday of each month at Alzfla.org/VolunteerWebinar

I am still in an Alzheimer’s clinical study. Starting my instant pot is no longer a problem, but I do have occasional difficulty recalling a specific word or someone’s name. I know this can be due to a part of the brain associated with Alzheimer’s. So, I am a realist. 

I know today there is no cure for Alzheimer’s but knowing there are ways to slow the disease continues to fuel me. Finding a cure for Alzheimer’s will happen only if we continue to support those studying the disease. In the meantime, if we living with Alzheimer’s can gain even a few more months interacting with our family and friends, isn’t it worth doing all we can to challenge ‘The Beast’?

For more information, visit the alz.org or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.