Dealing with the reality of an aging spouse or relative is never easy, and things become increasingly heartbreaking with an illness as complicated as Alzheimer’s. Fortunately, Sacramento residents have a wide variety of options at their fingertips when it comes to local, effective help and support.

Living with Alzheimer’s in Sacramento

Alzheimer’s is a devastating illness that impairs the brain and causes the individual to lose various brain functionality including the ability to recall basic information about themselves or others.

This can make it exceptionally challenging for caregivers, as they pour hours of effort into keeping the patient healthy and alert, only to not even be recognized by name once the disease progresses to a certain point. This makes the treatment and support facilities throughout Sacramento incredibly valuable to every person this illness touches.

Sacramento is fortunate to have some of the best hospitals on the West Coast, including UC Davis, which features an Alzheimer’s Disease Center. There are also several support groups and care homes that specialize in Alzheimer’s treatment day in and day out.

UC Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Center

The purpose of the UC Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Center is to further the understanding of this mysterious disease while assisting real life families at the same time. Geriatric psychologists work in cooperation with clinical researchers, social workers, psychometrists and more for top of the line discoveries and treatment options. Alzheimer’s patients are often invited to participate in research and clinical trials, and anyone can participate in an evaluation to determine whether or not this disease is prevalent.

UC Davis evaluates patients in 2-3 visits, each taking a few hours. They then hold a family conference to discuss results, diagnosis and an action plan. The center will also work with many insurance companies to cover the cost of this evaluation and any other treatment they may provide.

Alzheimer’s Aid Society of Northern California

The Alzheimer’s Aid Society provides caregiver support groups throughout Northern California, including many in Sacramento. They also host a café with plenty of food and activities for both caregivers and their loved ones battling this illness. Current support groups are located in:

• Amador County
• Auburn
• Cameron Park
• Carmichael
• Elk Grove
• Folsom
• Lake County
• Lodi
• Manteca
• Marysville
• Orangevale
• Placerville
• Roseville
• Sacramento
• South Lake Tahoe
• Stockton
• Tracy
• Turlock
• Vacaville
• Yreka
• Yuba City
• Carson City, NV

Memory Care Facilities

When Alzheimer’s progresses to a point beyond what is reasonable for a friend or relative to deal with, a memory care center is a great option.  Of course, not all facilities are equal, so it’s essential you select a quality institution.

Carlton Plaza of Sacramento

Self-described as a family atmosphere, this assisted living facility is two communities on a single campus. Choose from senior apartments or assisted living for those who need a bit more help with daily activities. Plenty of activities abound onsite, and they specialize in Alzheimer’s and Dementia care.

Sunrise Senior Living

Sunrise Senior Living exists to “help seniors live a full life – on their own terms.” They offer a well-balanced menu, social activities and more. They can guide family members through the symptoms and warning signs of Alzheimer’s, while also offering plenty of memory care resources.

Chateau at River’s Edge

Located in the well-respected Campus Commons community, this senior communities company features housing with special services. They will provide a healing and health-promoting atmosphere with programs designed to benefit the entire person – mind, body and soul. Come in for lunch to see the property and meet some of the staff before you make any sort of decision. This brings ease of comfort to many families concerned about their loved one’s care and well-being.

Alzheimer’s is never an easy thing for a family to deal with, but thanks to many advanced treatment facilities in the Sacramento region, there are an abundance of options to make the process at least a little bit easier on everyone involved.

For more information on Alzheimer’s, check out the Alzheimer’s Foundation or this helpful list of links to plenty of free and affordable resources.