Sacramento son shares message as he helps father battle Alzheimer’s

SACRAMENTO – Nearly seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. It is an illness that is not only hard on the patient but also on their family. June is Alzheimer’s Disease and Brain Awareness Month.

CBS13 tells the story of one family and the message they send to others going through the same thing.

“It’s been a roller coaster ride with a lot of emotions,” Carlos Olivas said.

The artist’s name is Carlos Olivas, and his son, also named Carlos, has been caring for him since he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease nine years ago. Since then, he has even had to move in with his father.

“There are short-term and long-term memory lapses. There is executive function. There is body temperature regulation. There are different types of symptoms that occur with my father,” the son said of Olivas.

Their family is one of millions of families in the United States affected by Alzheimer’s disease. He wants to share his story and let others know that it’s not easy, but there are resources.

“My advice is to educate yourself, build a team, be open-minded to being coached,” Olivas said.

One of Olivas’ resources has been the Alzheimer’s Association. People can talk to experts, connect to resources, and even see all 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

“Really, this workshop is about providing a toolkit and explaining the differences between normal and abnormal aging,” said Ingrid Villeda, of the Alzheimer’s Association. “Prevention is also key, and diet and exercise can play an important role. There is currently a lot of research indicating that exercise is good for the brain. This may be 15 to 30 minutes a day, but this is not enough. is not obligatory.

“My dad is teaching me how to take care of him through this journey,” Olivas said.

Olivas’ situation isn’t easy, but he wants people to know it’s possible. In fact, his father continues to surprise him with his art.

“I would say he’s currently thriving creatively while living with Alzheimer’s. We’re focusing on abilities, not disabilities,” Olivas said.