A diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s changes the type and level of care that a person needs. Too often, the level of care increases gradually over time with the family caregiver not realizing the increasing amount of care that was required to keep their family or loved one safe. The reasons for moving to a care facility for those with Alzheimer’s are usually based on the inability to keep them safe at home and not necessarily a physical health problem. It is very common for those with any type of dementia to wander, have outbursts that seem inappropriate, and want to go home to a place they haven’t lived since they were a child. There are several options for appropriate care in this area, but there are differences in the programs each community offers. We can help you find the program that best meets your family’s needs and the needs of your loved one.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients need to be in a facility that is safe and secure. In addition, they need the extra support of staff that is specifically trained to work with Dementia patients; staff that knows how to allow each resident to maintain their dignity and respect. Sometimes, people with dementia also have physical health issues that require the care and supervision of skilled nursing staff. This means they will need a skilled nursing facility that offers long-term care specifically for dementia care.
What is the difference between Dementia and Alzheimer’s? Dementia is a broad term that generally describes cognitive decline which is usually progressive. Alzheimer’s is a specific kind of dementia. There are other types of Dementia, such as Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), Creutzfeldt-Jacob Dementia (CJD), Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD), Vascular Dementia, Mixed Dementia (usually Alzheimer’s and Vascular Dementia ), Huntington’s Disease, Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (B1 deficiency), Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB). Most types of dementia are progressive and do not improve, although some medications may slow down the symptoms of some types of dementia. It is critical to work with the appropriate medical team in diagnosing and treating all types of dementia.
