Alzheimers

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a slowly progressive disease of the brain that is characterized by impairment of memory and eventually
by disturbances in reasoning, planning, language, and perception. Many scientists believe that Alzheimer's disease results from
an increase in the production or accumulation of a specific protein (beta–amyloid protein) in the brain that leads to nerve cell death.

The likelihood of having Alzheimer's disease increases substantially after the age of 70 and may affect around 50% of persons
over the age of 85. Nonetheless, Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging and is not something that inevitably happens in
later life. For example, many people live to over 100 years of age and never develop Alzheimer's disease.

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Don't wait until a crisis occurs to consider your options. Plan ahead and start your search early so that when the time comes you can
make a well-informed decision. When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's or related memory impairment, families often come
together to provide the support and care that is needed.

Frequently, one person in the family takes on the full-time role of caregiver for the loved one. That can have a major impact on family
life, as you seek to provide a safe and loving home, while also preparing meals and providing personal assistance and nursing care to your
loved one. Naturally you want to continue to care for your loved one in the home as long as possible. However, there comes a time when
the demands grow and more help is required. There are no rules regarding when it is time to move your loved one into a community. It
depends on their health and care needs. It also depends on YOUR health and needs. Also understand that you will no longer be able to care
for your loved one if you become sick. Remember that making the decision to move your loved one is not a last resort, but can be a best
resort.

Do not think of it as giving up your role as primary caregiver. Rather, think of it as gaining partners in care giving. These are partners who
can help improve the health, safety and well being of your loved one and clear a path for you to maintain a positive relationship with all of
your family members.

When is it time to make a decision to move your loved one into a community?

The answer is different for each individual but consider the following questions.

1. Is your loved one safe and comfortable in their current living situation?

2. How is your health and ability to care for your loved one?
Are you getting frustrated and angry caring for your
loved one?

3. Are you able to provide the stimulation (activities) and care that
your loved one needs?

Remember that although the decision to move your loved one to a care community can be very emotional and difficult, it can also
lead to an improved quality of life for all of you.

What should you look for in a community?

There are many things to consider when looking for a community for your loved one with Alzheimer's. In recent
years, many new communities that specialize in Alzheimer's care have been developed. There are now more
options for families. Consider the following criteria when looking for a home for your loved one:

What is the philosophy of the community regarding Alzheimer' care?

Do they promote independence?

Do they have a specific program philosophy?

What is the staffing pattern at the community?

Are there licensed nurses on staff? How many hours per day?

What kind of dementia care training do the caregivers obtain?
How often does training occur?

How long have the staff worked at the community?
Is there a high turnover of staff?

What kind of activity program do they offer and how many
hours per day?

Are the activities tailored to the needs of each individual?

Do they offer activities that your loved one will enjoy?

Do they provide a personalized care for each individual?

Do they offer a family support group?

Do they have a safe, secure environment that is designed
specifically to meet the needs of someone with Alzheimer's?

Is there a secure outdoor area for the residents to enjoy?

Is there a positive dining atmosphere?
Are the meals nutritious and tasty?

Can the meals be tailored to meet the needs and tastes
of your loved one?

Remember that many other families are going through the same challenges and emotions that you are. We encourage you to turn to a
support group in your community. Contact your local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association for information on a support group in
your area.

For more information on Alzheimer's please go to the link below: