JOPLIN, MO.--- It attacks without warning. As each generation outlives the last, Alzheimer's Disease only increases.
"Alzheimer's Dementia in people over the age of 65, is the 5th leading cause of death," states Dr. Henry Petry, Freeman Health System Geriatric.
Due to its extreme complexity, researchers have been unable to develop a cure.
"It is getting more prevalent, other diseases are finding help and cures. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's Dementia," says Dr. Petry.
For Kathy Ludders, the disease attacked her hero 8 years ago. It wasn't until her father had his stroke that the Alzheimer's really progressed.
"What's happening to this person you love, and you see is changing, and you don't know what to do about it," states Kathy Ludders.
Kathy eats lunch with her dad everyday but sometimes, he forgets who she is. It doesn't stop her from reminding him everyday, how important he is.
"Never give up, and always walk in love, and to be there for them especially if it's a mother or a father that has been there for all your life, then the fact that you get to be there for them is so important," says Kathy.
She's right. The experts tell us companionship can help keep loved ones alive longer.
"So companionship, knowing that you're there, continual familiarity helps you remember who it is. Like I said, if you don't use it, you will lose it," says Dr. Petry.
It is estimated that half of people over 85 have Alzheimer's Disease.
"Alzheimer's Dementia in people over the age of 65, is the 5th leading cause of death," states Dr. Henry Petry, Freeman Health System Geriatric.
Due to its extreme complexity, researchers have been unable to develop a cure.
"It is getting more prevalent, other diseases are finding help and cures. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's Dementia," says Dr. Petry.
For Kathy Ludders, the disease attacked her hero 8 years ago. It wasn't until her father had his stroke that the Alzheimer's really progressed.
"What's happening to this person you love, and you see is changing, and you don't know what to do about it," states Kathy Ludders.
Kathy eats lunch with her dad everyday but sometimes, he forgets who she is. It doesn't stop her from reminding him everyday, how important he is.
"Never give up, and always walk in love, and to be there for them especially if it's a mother or a father that has been there for all your life, then the fact that you get to be there for them is so important," says Kathy.
She's right. The experts tell us companionship can help keep loved ones alive longer.
"So companionship, knowing that you're there, continual familiarity helps you remember who it is. Like I said, if you don't use it, you will lose it," says Dr. Petry.
It is estimated that half of people over 85 have Alzheimer's Disease.
