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Alzheimer’s Care Explained
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Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, is a progressive, degenerative brain disorder. Brain cells shrink or disappear, gradually destroying a person's memory, ability to learn and make judgments. An estimated 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. By 2050 the number of those affected is projected to range from 11.3 million to 16 million.
As Alzheimer's advances, an individual's capacity to reason and carry out normal daily activities diminishes. As the disease affects disparate areas of the brain, different functions and abilities are lost. Each individual is uniquely affected and at widely varying rates of acceleration. As a result, there is no single approach to caregiving.
When seeking Alzheimer's care, it is essential to be certain that the patient in question has been accurately diagnosed. If any doubts exist, a second opinion should be sought and all resources should be exhausted. Doctors often confer with other health care professionals including neurologists, geriatricians, psychologists and psychiatrists. There is no single specific test to positively diagnose a patient with Alzheimer's.
Once Alzheimer's is confirmed, there are a number of steps that can be taken to help ensure an understanding of the totality of the diagnosis. By identifying and examining behavior and behavioral changes, family members or caregivers can determine the most suitable care option for the patient's individual situation. Alzheimer's care is commonly categorized as follows: (1) in-home care, (2) adult day care and (3) dedicated facilities that house and oversee Alzheimer's patients.
There is no cure for Alzheimer's at this time and it is currently not possible to restore brain cells affected by the disease. However, there are treatments to help caregivers and patients cope with the challenges of the affliction. A patient with Alzheimer's can still experience love, joy and sadness. Effective Alzheimer's care combined with emotional support can improve the quality and richness of a patient's life.
Posted in: Alzheimer's & Dementia, Alzheimer's & Dementia Care at Home, Alzheimers & Dementia Care, Assisted Living & Alzheimer's Care Communities, Caregiving, Elder Care, Homecare 101, How-to's
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