As cases of Alzheimer's disease continue to rise dramatically, and with the Alzheimer's Association estimating 1 in 7 baby boomers will be diagnosed, the need for public education is crucial.

Many families struggle for answers when loved ones display such behavior as repeating oneself, general forgetfulness, confusion, lack of interest in or absence of personal hygiene and grooming, not eating properly, inability to find the car in a parking lot, and forgetting to pay bills or paying them twice.

In addition, individuals may have difficulties in completing small or simple tasks, getting lost on familiar roads, becoming more demanding, exhibiting uncharacteristic anger, or showing signs of age regression. Other signs might include acting out in inappropriate ways, a lack of motivation, lost of interest in favorite activities, hiding household bills or valuable items, and then accusing others of stealing because they can't find what they've hidden.

Family members who share their experiences through personal interviews, surveys and support group meetings often acknowledge they tried to explain away or ignore these observations because it's too painful to admit something could be truly wrong.

Part of this role we play as human beings is being immersed in relationships of all types with family and friends, whether they're close or distant, emotional or physical, rewarding or challenging, or simply good and bad.

Individuals must not forget that no two human connections are the same. Nobody's perfect, but there are individuals in our lives who we feel are pretty close to earning that status, people who seem to be part of every breath we take. That makes a diagnosis of Alzheimer's, dementia or memory loss even harder to bear.

Sometimes family members and friends are puzzled by someone's behavior, actions or comments that seem out of character. Not wanting to over-react, they often attribute it to a “bad day.” Everybody has personality quirks and down days, but if these persist and the person's denial is too adamant or dismissed, they can't help but question the source of these changes.

Everyone should pay attention to unusual behavior or actions and inactions that are uncharacteristic of a loved one, especially in their senior years. Those could be due to short-term or long-term health issues and should not be ignored. Sometimes it's useful to document these events, so that they're not forgotten and can be part of detailed information provided to medical personnel if necessary.

In the event of a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or related condition, it's important to work with physicians to provide the best care for the patient. Avoidance and denial can be dangerous, costly and shatter relationships.

Monica Vest Wheeler is author of “Alzheimer's, Dementia & Memory Loss: Straight Talk for Families & Caregivers.” This is the second in the series of “Help Me Cope and Survive” books. This includes an inside look at how real families cope and relates their advice for coping with loved ones diagnosed with these neurological diseases. Personal stories suggest practical ways to deal with situations, while offering emotional support from those who understand the challenges of daily life with Alzheimer's. Monica can be reached at www.bfpress.com or by calling 1-877-267-4640.