Alzheimer's Placement

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Alzheimer’s Placement: Making the Right Choice Currently there are 5.2 million older Americans, aged 65 and up, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, according to the 2011 Alzheimer Disease Facts and Figures report (14). Alzheimer’s disease, a form of Dementia, is a gradual deterioration of brain cells. Alzheimer’s Disease causes memory loss, personality changes and eventually causes difficulties in activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing and meal preparation (What is Alzheimer’s Disease ). Understandably, patients would prefer to continue living in their homes, surrounded by the things they cherish and the people they love. The challenges associated with Alzheimer’s Disease are never-ending and know to effect not only the one…show more content…
Many believe nursing facilities offer an abundance of daily activities and social skills compared to living alone. Although living at home keeps things familiar a patient may become isolated resulting in depression. In facilities there is always some type of activity or someone to talk to (Paggi). Facilities offer daily activities to stimulate the mind and encourage interaction with other residents. Sing-a-longs, pet therapy, reading, puzzles and reminiscing are all encouraged activities for Alzheimer’s patients; facilities provide most if not all of these activities (Dean 24). These activities provide excellent cognitive and physical skills. Consistency and familiarity are important in Alzheimer’s care. In a facility, the days are on a consistent schedule: each day the routine of the residents must be kept the same to avoid anxiety or…show more content…
Nursing facilities provide both of these. Nurses are on staff daily to administer medications and document any changes in the resident. When patients live on their own, their medications are often not taken. They may forget what time to take them or even take too many. Licensed nurses are often part of the staff at nursing facilities. They are available to assist in any problems that may occur with the residents. Some facilities have contracted physicians who work for them or come into the building weekly to see their patients. In facilities, medication changes are monitored on a regular basis as well as care meetings notifying staff and families of any important issues. Almost all facilities offer transportation to and from appointments and other activities that residents may want to be involved in. Staff members often talk with physicians to update them on the changes in the

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