By her 80th birthday Anna Brigham had already spent several years experiencing Alzheimer''s symptoms.
With a strong family history of Alzheimer''s from her mother and brother, she had a sense of what to expect, which is sometimes the hardest part of this disease.
Married for 58 years to "the greatest person she has ever known" and maintaining an active lifestyle has helped her face what can be a debilitating disease for so many.
"At the first signs we immediately looked for help," says Brigham, who has the support of her husband, Reginald, and adult children. "I do pretty well most of the time and we take each day as it comes. It''s the short-term memory loss that gets me frustrated at times."
The Brigham''s sought care from Kellie Flood, MD, of the Washington University School of Medicine''s Older Adult Assessment Program at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. The program offers comprehensive care and support for both the patient and family members from physicians, nurses and pharmacists.
"Mrs. Brigham was on the look out for Alzheimer''s and was very aware when it presented itself early," recalls Dr. Flood. "Sometimes people think early signs are typical of aging, but that is often not the case. It can also be challenging for physicians in private practice because they often don''t have the time necessary to spend with a patient experiencing the first signs of dementia."
Dr. Flood believes strongly that Mrs. Brigham has done well over the last few years because she remains active and exercises both her body and her brain. In addition, the support of her husband in her care has been extremely important.
"Part of the care we deliver is to the families as well," she says. "If we can help family members care for their loved ones while reducing their own stress, then they can help the patient remain at home as long as possible."
Mr. and Mrs. Brigham believe their faith, family and friends are what have helped them remain strong.
"If we can help others understand Alzheimer''s and recognize that there is nothing to be ashamed of, then I am happy to talk about it," she says. "There is help when you recognize it and accept it."