In 2021, Alzheimer’s disease claimed 119,399 lives in the U.S., making it the seventh-highest cause of death in the nation. Almost half a million people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s each year.
Alzheimer’s is often equated with dementia, but that’s inaccurate. Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia with specific symptoms. Memory loss is a primary symptom of Alzheimer’s, with those affected losing more of their memory as the disease progresses.
Since people with Alzheimer’s struggle with confusion as their cognitive functions decline, they often display signs of agitation. They may also suffer from delusions and hallucinations. Due to the nature of their illness and symptoms, those with Alzheimer’s have unique care requirements. Many families are unable to provide the round-the-clock care and supervision needed, which is why many with Alzheimer’s live in skilled nursing facilities offering innovative Alzheimer’s care.
Understanding innovations in Alzheimer’s care and how nursing facilities are transforming Alzheimer’s treatments in skilled nursing facilities ensures you know what to look for so you can identify excellent Alzheimer’s facilities for loved ones with this disease.
Contact Haven Health to learn more about our memory care services today.
How Do Nursing Facilities Take Care of Residents With Alzheimer’s?
Assisted living facilities provide essential support to all residents. Standard services include the following:
- Bathing assistance
- Dressing assistance
- Feeding assistance
- Health care management
- Housekeeping services
- Laundry services
- Medication management
- Recreational activities
- Security
- Social opportunities
- Transportation
The level of assistance may vary based on individual needs. Since symptoms of Alzheimer’s worsen over time, some individuals may need minimal assistance, while others may need help completing all daily living tasks.
In addition to the standard services provided, skilled nursing facilities offer specific services for those with Alzheimer’s. Providing reputable Alzheimer’s facility services begins with staffing. These nursing facilities provide expert training to ensure staff understand the unique needs residents with Alzheimer’s have. Staff create and maintain a supportive environment delivering expert Alzheimer’s care by establishing personalized care plans grounded in understanding each individual’s needs.
Alzheimer’s facilities embrace modern technology and utilize the latest devices with features suited to patients with Alzheimer’s. Tablets and voice assistants are crucial tools for communication because they help interpret speech and present it clearly so others can understand and respond. Using technology helps reduce the isolation and loneliness that affect those with Alzheimer’s.
Skilled nursing facilities also support individuals with Alzheimer’s by prioritizing well-lit, open spaces individuals can navigate. These spaces prevent confusion, which can cause agitation and distress.
Memory care is another crucial innovation in Alzheimer’s care. Nursing facilities offering memory care prioritize resident safety with 24-hour supervision, door alarms, locked doors, secured outdoor areas, and other security features that prevent residents from wandering.
How Can Nurses Improve Alzheimer’s Care?
Nurses deliver expert Alzheimer’s care by establishing rapport with residents and developing daily routines that provide a sense of security. When residents understand their routine and what’s expected of them, they can complete essential daily tasks and avoid emotional distress caused by uncertainty and confusion.
Nurses provide essential support by promoting self-care and helping residents identify and meet their needs. They also play a critical role in delivering innovative Alzheimer’s care through continuing education courses that explain the latest discoveries in Alzheimer’s research, new treatment options, and new ways to improve care for patients with Alzheimer’s.
What Is the Best Way to Care for Someone With Alzheimer’s?
Suppose you have a loved one who has just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. In the early stages of the disease, they may not need round-the-clock supervision and care; however, they may need assistance with routine tasks, such as paying bills and performing complex tasks.
You can support someone with regular visits and address their needs by providing assistance or hiring a home health aide. As the disease progresses, you will need to decide whether you should provide the 24-hour care and supervision they need or whether it’s time to look for a skilled nursing facility with Alzheimer’s care.
Starting the process of looking for an Alzheimer’s facility before the disease progresses allows your loved one to participate in the process and understand the benefits the facility offers. You can help familiarize them with their new environment, where they will establish a daily routine suited to their personal care needs and interests.
You can continue to support your loved one with regular visits and plan activities they enjoy in familiar and safe places.
Alzheimer’s Care at Haven Health
At Haven Health, our expert medical team provides the essential services residents need to thrive. We’ll assess your loved one’s health, identify their healthcare needs, develop a health management plan, and ensure they receive the daily support they need for optimum health. We establish daily routines in a secure senior care facility that ensures their safety and your peace of mind.
Sources:
Facts & Stats. (2024).
Leading Causes of Death. (2024).
Van Dis, K. (2023). What is Memory Care?