What is Alzheimer's care?
Alzheimer's is a progressive, degenerative brain disease that results in impaired memory, thinking and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia in seniors, with causes and a cure that remain unknown. It touches everyone involved; many with Alzheimer's require around-the-clock assistance with the most basic daily activities.Today, assisted living and nursing communities are making Alzheimer's care a core part of their services. Many facilities offer flexible programs based on residents' needs and life skills. The priority is to provide a secure and peaceful environment. Dignity, respect, support and understanding are the keys to the most effective forms of outside help.
Who has Alzheimer's?
- Over 4 million Americans have Alzheimer's today
- Over 14 million Americans will have the disease by 2050 unless a cure is found.
- Almost one in 10 people over age 65, and nearly half of those over 85 have Alzheimer's disease.
- 7 out of 10 of those with the disease live at home and are cared for by their families and friends.
What to expect.
Alzheimer' services are structured around the assisted living or nursing communities in which they are based. Programs are run by professionally trained staff who provide assistance and supervision for basic daily activities such as eating, bathing, grooming, bathroom visits and walking. Residents may have a shared apartment or single/double room. Some communities anticipate resident needs by design: they add hand rails are in corridors and rooms, use color coding to identify bathrooms or special areas, and provide special dinnerware and utensils.Memory loss is hardly a reason for shame. A professionally run Alzheimer's care community will provide ways to help build esteem, preserve dignity and remind residents of a happy time and place. Very often, repeated basic skills and familiar tasks or routines can stimulate the mind and keep residents from feeling isolated or confused. But nothing replaces the attention of family and friends. More and more, communities are providing private gathering or party places, extended visiting times and social activities. These little things can make a big difference.
Some communities take this one step further. They may design surroundings to look like home, with safe wandering paths and memory boxes for keepsake items. Decor can include soothing and calming scents and sounds. Safe, but stimulating activities may include gardening, sewing and household chores.
