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Real members of myALZteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
September 15
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myALZteam

That's a really meaningful question, and it's one many people living with Alzheimer's think about.

The honest answer is that it varies a lot from person to person. Some people continue working — at least part time — especially in the earlier stages, while others find it too challenging depending on their symptoms and job Show Full Answer

That's a really meaningful question, and it's one many people living with Alzheimer's think about.

The honest answer is that it varies a lot from person to person. Some people continue working — at least part time — especially in the earlier stages, while others find it too challenging depending on their symptoms and job demands.

Here are some things that can influence whether someone keeps working:

- Stage of diagnosis — Earlier stages may allow for continued work with some adjustments
- Type of work — Routine, familiar tasks may be easier to manage than complex or high-pressure roles
- Workplace support — Supportive employers and flexible schedules can make a big difference
- Personal choice — Some people find purpose and routine in working; others prefer to focus on wellbeing and time with loved ones

It's always worth having an open conversation with a doctor about what's realistic and safe given where things are right now.

Connecting with others on myALZteam who are navigating the same question can also be really comforting — many members share their day-to-day experiences openly.

September 15
A myALZteam Member

I worked for a company as a Senior Accountant, for over 22 years. Early in about the last six months of my employment, I found myself no longer able to multi-task, which was a definite prerequisite for the specific position I was in. I would find myself staring at my desk trying to figure out what I was supposed to be working on. I really struggled. I finally spoke to my PCP about what might be going on it did not take long for them to find out i was in the early stages of Early Onset Alzheimer's. My mother had had it, but i never really thought about it as I aged. Long story short had to quit working. It was quite devastating to me as i have always lived alone, am kinda an introvert and work was opportunity for easily obtainable social interaction. And I have always loved working. Additionally it was a very mentally challenging and stimulating position and I had to learn other ways of fulfilling those needs. And I have.
Three years into my diagnosis, i still live alone. I live fairly close to a Barrows Neurological facility and I have several just excellent medical professionals who support me and see me as an integral part of my own care. I still drive myself everywhere, pretty much do and go where I would care to. I do take several Alzheimer's meds, the one most helpful is Leqembi, which actually help slow down the progression of the disease and several that assist with some of the symptoms. I try to take every day as it cones without lots of expectations, and try to live one day at a time. I have prepared for my future, with creating trusts, identified and asked close friends to be "my people" (since I do not have any blood relatives) when I will need them in the future legally, so I am now at a point in my life where I live each day to my fullest, do things i like doing and just take what comes... Kinda works for me.

September 27
A myALZteam Member

I tried, was given different opportunities within the company I had worked for since 2000. I was not able to do it. I have early onset, and my short term memory has been affected the most, so no more new skills for me. Trying to get on disability. That is alot harder than I thought.

September 20
A myALZteam Member

Positive & uplifting approach!! Congrats

September 29
A myALZteam Member

MaryLeslie I totally understand I had been in Payroll for over 29 years and the last 10 years I progressively got worse and I couldn't understand what was happening and my Manager didnt understand even after I had been diagnosed that was before I was diagnosed just 4 months ago. I tried to push through but it just kept getting worse so I had to resign.
It's frustrating and I miss it but at least I was able to determine the issue and that I wasnt losing it.

Stacie

September 25

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