RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: Individuals with early-onset Alzheimer's disease face many challenges and barriers older adults with late-onset Alzheimer's do not. Unfortunately, information about early-onset Alzheimer's disease is in its infancy stage in comparison with late-onset Alzheimer's. PURPOSE/AIMS: The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experiences of a 54-year-old man with early-onset Alzheimer's disease and his family (wife, sister, and mother) to understand the effects on the family unit. DESIGN: Interpretive phenomenology was used to guide this study. METHODS: All participants completed 2 in-person one-on-one interviews, and a final interview was completed online. Field notes, member checks, and triangulation were used to enhance the study's credibility. RESULTS: This article focuses on the theme "'A big curve ball': Disruption of the life cycle." Participants indicated the major financial and social challenges experienced by Joe and his wife. Furthermore, participants emphasized the importance of acceptance and maintaining a positive attitude to help cope with Joe's diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: The accounts of Joe and his family shed light on an area relatively void in the literature. In addition, Joe's experiences may provide comfort for other families facing early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The implications for community health nurses in assisting individuals with early-onset Alzheimer's disease and their families are discussed.
