Understanding Alzheimer's & Dementia
A practical guide for Central Illinois families — covering the stages of Alzheimer's, effective care strategies, and local resources to support your loved one and yourself.
Angels Over Us is led by Lani Cabral-Pasao — a Registered Nurse and Certified Dementia Practitioner with 37 years of experience.
What Is Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that destroys memory, thinking skills, and eventually the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of all cases. It is not a normal part of aging — it is a disease.
In Illinois, roughly a quarter of a million people age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's disease, and that number is projected to grow as the population ages. Across Central Illinois, thousands of families are navigating this diagnosis right now.
There is no cure, but the right care approach can meaningfully improve quality of life, reduce behavioral symptoms, and help the person with Alzheimer's maintain dignity and connection for much longer than many families expect is possible.
The Stages of Alzheimer's
Early Stage
Mild — often lasts 2–4 years
Common signs:
- Forgetting recent conversations or events
- Repeating the same questions
- Difficulty with complex tasks like finances
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Mood changes, withdrawal from social activities
Care needs at this stage:
Companion care, medication reminders, light supervision. Person can still live independently with modest support.
Middle Stage
Moderate — often the longest stage
Common signs:
- Increasing memory loss and confusion
- Difficulty recognizing family and friends
- Wandering and becoming lost
- Behavioral changes: agitation, suspicion, sleep disturbance
- Needing help with daily activities (bathing, dressing)
Care needs at this stage:
Daily professional caregiver support. Wandering prevention. Structured routine. This is when most families seek in-home care.
Late Stage
Severe — requires full-time care
Common signs:
- Loss of ability to communicate verbally
- Requires full assistance with all daily activities
- Vulnerability to infections
- Loss of mobility
- Difficulty swallowing
Care needs at this stage:
24/7 care, often transitioning to hospice support. Focus shifts to comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
Effective Dementia Care Strategies
Create Structure and Routine
People with Alzheimer's feel more secure when each day follows a predictable pattern. Consistent mealtimes, hygiene routines, and activity schedules reduce confusion and agitation. Post the daily schedule visibly.
Communicate with Patience
Speak slowly and simply. Use their name. Make eye contact. Ask one question at a time — not 'What do you want for breakfast?' but 'Would you like eggs?' Validate their feelings even when their reality differs from yours.
Address Wandering Safely
Install door alarms and deadbolts out of sight. Consider a GPS tracker or medical ID bracelet. Ensure the home environment is safe for unsupervised movement. Never lock someone in a room — find safer alternatives.
Manage Sundowning
Many people with dementia become more agitated in the late afternoon and evening — a phenomenon called sundowning. Increase lighting, reduce noise and stimulation, offer a snack, and plan engaging activities earlier in the day.
Use Music and Memory
Music from a person's youth can reach them even in late-stage Alzheimer's when other communication has broken down. Old photographs, familiar scents, and cherished objects also serve as powerful connective tools.
Take Behavioral Symptoms Seriously
Aggression, accusations, and paranoia are symptoms of the disease — not character. Don't argue or try to reason. Redirect attention, change the environment, and consult a physician if behavioral symptoms are severe or sudden.
Central Illinois Alzheimer's Resources
Alzheimer's Association — Illinois Chapter
Education programs, support groups, care consultations, and the 24/7 helpline (1-800-272-3900) for families across Central Illinois.
Alzheimer's Association Care Consultation
Free one-on-one sessions with a trained professional to help families navigate diagnosis, care planning, and community resources. Start by calling the 24/7 helpline.
Illinois Department on Aging — Community Care Program
State programs for older adults, including the Community Care Program (in-home and adult day services for eligible seniors), caregiver support, and the Senior HelpLine (1-800-252-8966). Medicaid-eligible seniors may also receive services through HealthChoice Illinois.
Senior Services of Central Illinois
Springfield-based nonprofit helping older adults and their families with programs that support living independently at home.
Related Home Care Services
Expert Dementia Care in Central Illinois
Our founder Lani Cabral-Pasao is a Certified Dementia Practitioner who personally oversees care plans for every client with Alzheimer's or dementia. We'd be honored to help your family.