Subtle changes in daily routines can be among the earliest indicators of Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects millions worldwide. Recognizing these signs is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention.
Régine Verger, a retired nurse from Lyon, France, first noticed something was amiss with her husband, Bernard, in June 2023. The former business executive, then 79, began exhibiting unusual forgetfulness and lapses in judgment. “He couldn’t navigate although driving anymore,” Régine recalled.
These initial concerns quickly escalated. “The first signs appeared as immediate memory lapses and dangerous driving,” Régine explained. “At home, he would forget to turn off lights, switch off the stove, close doors, or arm the house alarm – all things he had always done without issue, and which could have serious consequences.”
“I Immediately Thought of Alzheimer’s”
While Bernard initially dismissed the changes, Régine’s medical background led her to suspect the worst. “I immediately thought of Alzheimer’s and encouraged him to witness our family doctor,” she said. Subsequent tests, including an MRI, led to a consultation with a neurologist at the “Neuro” hospital (Pierre Wertheimer Neurological Hospital, Eastern Group of the Hospices Civils de Lyon).
Just a month after the first symptoms appeared, the diagnosis came: Alzheimer’s disease. “It happened very quickly,” Régine said. “It felt like the sky fell on my head… Such a diagnosis is extremely traumatic. Bernard had difficulty accepting it. But denial quickly set in. He said he was fine and there was no reason to worry.”
Bernard’s neurologist, Dr. Bernard Croisile, helped him overcome this initial denial. According to Régine, “He’s an anxious person. He takes an anti-anxiety medication and an antidepressant morning, noon, and night to be calmer and better able to cope with his condition.”
Early Diagnosis and Treatment Can Benefit Alzheimer’s Patients
Three years later, Bernard consistently follows a treatment plan designed to slow the progression of the disease, which was initiated promptly after diagnosis. Régine believes this early intervention has made a difference. “Looking around, I see a difference. The disease is progressing, but I find that my husband is doing better than other patients who are already in specialized facilities.”
In addition to conventional therapies, Bernard participates in a variety of exercises and workshops aimed at maintaining his cognitive function. These cognitive stimulation activities are facilitated by several organizations, including Fourvière Hospital, where he attends sessions twice a week, and France Alzheimer Rhône, where he participates in “karate health” sessions. “A karate instructor, whose wife has the disease, decided to take a group under his care and work with them on gestures, joint flexibility, and muscle relaxation,” Régine explained.
These approaches are common for many individuals living with Alzheimer’s, and their caregivers. Régine herself has received specialized training to support her husband, completing two courses for caregivers. She now volunteers with France Alzheimer Rhône, describing it as “a wonderful organization that supports all patients – at least those who want it, because many remain at home.”
“Who is this man who was here yesterday?”
Over the past three years, Bernard’s condition has progressed to include complete amnesia. “He forgets what I told him seconds ago,” Régine shared. “I prepare his clothes in the morning, organize and provide his meals… I can hardly exit him alone.” Despite the challenges, Bernard remains active, and they continue to enjoy activities like hiking together.
Régine Verger is hesitant to discuss her own feelings, but acknowledges the profound impact of the diagnosis. She focuses on cherishing the memories of their life together. Importantly, Bernard’s memory loss hasn’t yet reached the point of not recognizing Régine. “I’m constantly with him, so he recognizes me. Still, that’s not the case with friends, or even our son, who no longer lives at home. He asked me who this man was who was with him yesterday. And that is extremely traumatic and difficult for me to manage.”
Despite the pain of these fleeting moments, Régine continues to move forward, supporting Bernard each day. While memories fade and familiar faces grow distant, their affection and courage endure.
NOTE
Régine and Bernard Verger have been invited to share their experience with Alzheimer’s disease – she as a caregiver, he as a patient – at the opening of the 7th International Alzheimer’s Disease Conference, organized by ADI (Alzheimer’s Disease International) and the France Alzheimer association, from April 14 to 16, 2026, at the Lyon Convention Center. The largest event dedicated to the disease in the world brings together a thousand experts and delegates from around the globe every two years.
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