Alzheimer's and Dementia Care Facilities

Alzheimer's disease the is the most common form of dementia. It afflicts nearly five million people in the United States and another 28 million worldwide. In its early phases, the most telling symptom is loss of memory—typically difficulty remembering recent events or recently learned facts. As the disease worsens and affects more brain cells, the symptoms increase. These can include confusion, anger, rapid mood changes, loss of language capabilities and long-term loss of memory. Ultimately the symptoms become so pronounced that they make living independently impossible.

Many things have been suggested and tried to prevent Alzheimer's disease. Some seem to have an effect, but clinically speaking their value has remained unproven or very minor in either slowing the progression or reducing the severity of the disease. Among the things commonly tried are mental and physical exercises, and changes in diet. But Alzheimer's is still considered incurable and is degenerative, so careful monitoring and management of patients is vital.

Care giving must be carefully managed as the disease runs its course. Typically the main caregiver is the spouse or a close relative. Alzheimer's puts a tremendously stressful burden on these people. The effects of that include social, psychological, physical, and economic aspects of the caregiver's life.

As you search for an assisted living environment, it’s crucial to learn about expert, specialized care for Alzheimer’s patients. Some senior living facilities—despite their claims—are not properly staffed or equipped to this. Much of the best Alzheimer's care is provided in an assisted living or nursing home environment. Residents there are attended to at all times by staff members trained in Alzheimer's and dementia care. These facilities have secured areas to prevent wandering, which is a very common symptom. Some facilities offer access to outdoor paths or gardens that lie within the secured areas.

To reach a decision about where your loved one will reside, it is important to ask detailed questions about the qualifications of staff members who care for Alzheimer's patients.