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Joe Benter
Senior Living
2008-12-31 09:59:00
Recognizing dementia
Question: What are some obvious signs that will help recognize Dementia?
Answer: As a Nursing home administrator, dealing with residents with Dementia can be a daily event. Dementia is a medical term used when damage in the brain causes at least four changes. These are: memory loss, changes in how people talk, changes in how people act and changes in the ability to do simple things like getting dressed or bathing. Alzheimer’s disease is just one of many diseases that can cause Dementia. Over the next few editions of this article, we will take a journey through the early, middle and late stages of Alzheimer’s and look at some practical tips about the disease process. Please keep in mind that by no means am I an expert in dealing with Alzheimer’s patients. In fact, much of what you will read here comes from a great resource called “Coach Broyles Playbook for Alzheimer’s Caregivers”. This is a free resource from the Alzheimer’s Association and can be obtained by calling 800-272-3900. Early stage Alzheimer’s disease can last anywhere from two to four years. The first signs of Alzheimer’s are things like having trouble with numbers, forgetting to mail bills, not signing checks and stopping activities that were once always enjoyed. This is one of the most important times to see a doctor. Your doctor can prescribe medicine that can slow down the damage Alzheimer’s causes in the brain. Remember, Alzheimer’s is a disease of the brain and there is no reason for shame or to hide away. During this early stage, it’s also a good time to take care of practical matters. Locate personal papers like birth records, social security cards, medical cards and insurance papers. Also, you will want to get three important legal documents: a Living Will, a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, and a Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Matters. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan incase something happens to you. Alzheimer’s affects the entire family, not just the person with the disease. It’s important to remember that when dealing with someone with Alzheimer’s, it is just as critical to take care of your self as it is to meet the needs of the person with the disease. As a caregiver, you must get into the habit of making time for yourself each day. Don’t give up on the things you love to do. Exercise, eat right, get enough rest and spend time with friends and family. As a caregiver you are at risk of having feelings of sadness, stress, anxiety, anger, guilt, grief and frustration. Keep in mind that these are normal feelings, but it will help to talk with others who are going through the same thing. It might also help to make a list of the things your loved one can still do. Finally, take time to celebrate the positive things each and every day, take one day at a time, keep your sense of humor and pat yourself on the back for the good job you are doing.
 
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