The youth orientation of our society and accompanying negative stereotypes associated with aging are being re-examined in light of current research findings and our country's improved health care.

This quote was found here. The home page for this site is here. (http://www.coa.uky.edu/default.htm)

I found another quote on an associated site here.

"Ten years ago there was enormous pessimism about Alzheimer's," says Charles Smith, associate professor of neurology in the UK College of Medicine. "Once you made the diagnosis, that was pretty much it. Now, prevention of Alzheimer's looks realistic, and that has grown out of research at centers like ours."

These are all from sites associated with the Sanders-Brown Center for Aging at the University of Kentucky. It's one of the leading centers in the world for research on diseases of aging, especially Altzheimer's. (I think the original money was from Col. Harland Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken fame.)

Spud, I noticed in the Anonymity thread that you were a listener. I was just telling Night Owl on PalTalk that we can recognize each other!

You asked for specifics. My MS diagnosis took ten years in which I felt the abandonment that Ebbie speaks of. So you might say I learned a few things. I've half jokingly told my kids that if I get Altzheimer's, don't worry about me, I'll be happy. It's that inbetween time that is scary.

1) Find out all the information you can, and try to guide those around you to do the same. Right now, evaluate yourself to find out if you really do want to know everything. Then make sure your doctor and family members are convinced that you really do want to know everything. Keep talking. If those around you are in denial, find somebody else to talk to.

2) Don't expect any one person to meet all your needs. I was always surrounded by friends and family who loved me very much, but were always in deep denial.

3) Keep your sense of humor. One of my neighbors has dementia associated with MS and constantly jokes about her mental state.

4) When you're confused, just trust loved ones. I'm blessed with a hubby who can take charge. Also, my faith gives me tremendous comfort that I'll get to the same place regardless of how or when I get there.

5) Check out support groups. I've never used one for MS, but years ago The Mother's of Twins Club was a lifesaver.

6) Keep reading the Internet, especially research news. Beware of medical advice though, because a very large percent of it is simply incorrect or misleading.

7) PM me if you want more info!

Mary