Equip Yourself for the Road Ahead
Understanding Alzheimer’s and related dementias begins with learning what’s happening and what steps you can take next. Whether you’re concerned about memory changes or already living with a diagnosis, this page will help you find clear, trustworthy information that meets you where you are.
What to Know If You’re Worried About Memory Loss
Identifying Normal Aging vs. Abnormal Aging
It’s easy to worry when you or someone you love begins forgetting things. Everyone loses their train of thought or misplaces their keys now and then. That’s a normal part of getting older.
Dementia is different. These changes aren’t occasional or minor — they happen often, they disrupt daily life, and they’re usually noticeable to others.
For example:
The difference is not in a single memory slip — it’s in the pattern and how much it affects daily living.
If you’re unsure whether changes are typical or concerning, a free memory screening can give you clarity and help you take the right next step.
Know the 10 Warning Signs
It can be unsettling to wonder whether changes you notice in yourself or a loved one are just part of normal aging, or signs of something more serious. Everyone forgets things occasionally, but dementia warning signs are persistent, disruptive, and noticeable to others.
Here are the ten most common signs of Alzheimer’s and related dementias — with real-world context to help you recognize the difference:
Not every symptom means dementia — and not everyone will experience these signs in the same way. But if you or a loved one are noticing several of them, it’s important to talk with a professional. Early evaluation can rule out other causes, give peace of mind, and open the door to more options for treatment and planning.
Reducing Your Risk
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, but research shows that healthy habits can protect brain health and may lower your risk. What’s good for the heart is also good for the brain.
Risk reduction doesn’t mean dementia can always be avoided, but it may delay its onset and improve quality of life.
What to Know If You’re Living With Dementia
What to Expect After a Diagnosis
Hearing the words “you have dementia” can be overwhelming. But a diagnosis is not the end of your journey. Dementia progresses gradually, and many people continue to live fulfilling lives for years.
Knowing what to expect helps you and your family prepare and make the most of each stage:
Each stage is different, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Local support and planning can make the journey easier for you and your family.
Daily Living Tips
Living with dementia brings challenges, but simple adjustments can make daily life easier, safer, and less stressful. These strategies aren’t about limiting your life — they’re about creating space to enjoy what matters most: family, friends, and meaningful activities.
Keep a consistent routine
Predictability reduces anxiety.
Use reminders and notes
Calendars, alarms, and sticky notes support independence.
Simplify your environment
Label drawers, reduce clutter, and keep essentials visible.
Break tasks into steps
Focusing on one step at a time prevents overwhelm.
Make safety a priority
Clear walkways, improve lighting, and add grab bars where needed.
Stay engaged
Hobbies, music, and gentle exercise bring joy and stimulate memory.
Living With Dementia in Alaska
Living with dementia in Alaska brings unique challenges. For many families, distance from specialized medical care is one of the hardest parts. Communities are spread far apart, and what might be a short drive in another state can mean hours of travel here. In winter, harsh weather and limited transportation can make even routine appointments feel out of reach.
Also, culture shapes our experience. In Alaska Native communities, elders hold a deeply respected role. Memory loss may be understood in ways that differ from a clinical diagnosis, and families often carry a strong tradition of caring for loved ones at home. Recognizing and honoring those traditions is an important part of support.
These challenges can make living with dementia feel isolating, but you are not alone. Alzheimer’s Resource Alaska provides programs designed specifically for our state — services that are culturally relevant, geographically accessible, and rooted in local communities. Whether you live in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, or a remote village, help is available close to home.
Care Coordination
If you or a loved one are on Medicaid Waiver or is Medicaid Waiver eligible and is living with Alzheimer’s disease, related dementia, or another qualifying disability, navigating care options can be complex. Care Coordination Resource Alaska (CCRA) is here to guide you through the process so you can access the services you need with clarity and support.
We proudly serve Alaskans statewide with personalized care planning rooted in respect, cultural understanding, and decades of experience.
Each stage is different, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Local support and planning can make the journey easier for you and your family.
Take Your Next Steps
Learning is the first step. The next step is finding the right support. We offer a variety of resources for each step of your journey. Plus, our Resource Specialists are here to guide you and your family every step of the way.
Free Memory Screening
Early answers and peace of mind.
Talk to a Resource Specialist
Personalized guidance to find the support you need.
Explore Our Classes
Engaging classes to strengthen memory and focus.
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