Will a person with Alzheimer's Disease be able to live independently?

In the very early stages of the disease, it may be possible for the person with AD to maintain a fairly independent life. However, it will become increasingly necessary for another individual to oversee certain details such as medication, money matters and daily chores. As the AD symptoms become more obvious, the person will need more and more assistance, eventually leading to full-time care. This type of commitment is often too much for one carer alone, especially if they are a family member or close friend who has to cope with many emotional, as well as physical, challenges (see Question 9).

Legally, it is helpful if the person with AD and their family make arrangements for the future, before independence is lost. For example, usual processes such as making a 'will' can be accompanied by signing a 'power of attorney' that gives a named individual the authority to take over decision making and/or financial matters, once the person is unable to take care of these aspects themselves. At the same time, discussing or officially stating preferences for their future health care ensures that the person with AD makes their opinion known, and takes some of the decision-making burden away from the carer. More details on how to deal with these legal issues can be found in the accompanying booklet, 'Helping to care'.