What's Next After a Diagnosis?

April 13, 2022

Written By
Sunrise Senior Living
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Written By

Sunrise Senior Living

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If you’re a caregiver or a family member of someone recently diagnosed, it’s important to seek support from others who have been through a similar experience. It’s not an easy process, but with a little preparation and help from others who have been there, you will be able to handle whatever may come.

Key Takeaways

  • Don’t go it alone—get the support you need
  • Know what questions to ask
  • Gain insights to plan for the future
  • Prioritize self-care

Originally Published: April 13, 2022

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Do not act or refrain from acting based on anything you have read on this site without seeking advice from an appropriate healthcare provider, attorney, financial advisor, or other qualified professional. Links to third-party websites are provided solely for your convenience; Sunrise Senior Living does not endorse or assume responsibility for the content of any third-party sites, nor for any actions taken based on the information provided on this page.

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Looking to learn more? 

We would love to help guide you on your senior living journey. Fill out the form and one of our senior living experts will be in touch within 24 hours to discuss any questions you have.
Phone : 888-212-9614

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Next Steps for a Better Tomorrow


Whether you are coming into this journey as someone diagnosed in the early stages of memory loss or as a loved one of someone in a more advanced stage, it is incredibly important not to try to handle everything by yourself. Identify a relative, friend, or aide who can help you take the steps below.
Get the Support You Need
  • Know that you’re not alone: Alzheimer’s affects around 5.8 million Americans and the numbers increase each year.
  • Visit the Alzheimer’s Association website for online support, local chapter information, and tips for you and your loved ones.
  • Ask your local Sunrise Senior Living community about support groups for caregivers.
Ask the Right Questions
  • Where am I in the memory loss progression?
  • What can I expect as the disease progresses?
  • Who will be my primary doctor?
  • What treatments are available?
  • Are there clinical trials available?
Plan for the Future
  • Talk with loved ones about who will make decisions on your behalf as the disease progresses and ask your lawyer about preparing a power of attorney or living will.
  • Research long-term care options so you can decide how your future care will be handled.
  • Meet with a lawyer specializing in elder law to discuss management of finances, property, and personal care.
  • If you don’t already have a will in place, take the time to have one drafted.
Take Care of Yourself
  • Anger, denial, fear, sadness, and other emotions often follow a diagnosis, so do your best to be open and honest about your feelings and seek help if needed.
  • Eat brain-healthy foods—fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and cold-water fish—that may help slow the progression of the disease.
  • Incorporate physical and mental exercise into your daily routine. It’s good for your well-being, overall outlook, and may help slow the disease progression.

Expert Memory Care at Sunrise

Sunrise Senior Living has been a leader in memory care for 40 years and our Reminiscence Neighborhoods have safe, secure spaces designed specifically for people living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other forms of memory loss.

  • We maintain a 24-hour team on-site to provide help for residents in need whenever they need it.
  • We offer a large variety of activities per week at each community to help our residents stay active and engaged.
  • Our team members receive robust training so they can attend to the unique needs of those experiencing memory loss.

Find a Sunrise memory care community near you and discover how we can meet your needs.

Looking to learn more? 

We would love to help guide you on your senior living journey. Fill out the form and one of our senior living experts will be in touch within 24 hours to discuss any questions you have.
Phone : 888-212-9614

Preferred Date

Preferred Tour Times

One Moment
Phone : 888-212-9614