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| Posted: January 16, 2008 |
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Some 5 million Americans live with some form of Alzheimer's disease. The degenerative brain illness usually attacks people over 65, but new technology is now detecting it in those much younger. Neurologist Claudia H. Kawas of the University of California, Irvine, answered your questions. |
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| Shirley of Washington, D.C., asks: |
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| Which is the best care for an elderly patient with Alzheimer's? Should they get home care or assisted-living care? I feel so helpless and worn out. I don't know if I am giving the proper care for my friend. |
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| Dr. Claudia Kawas responds: |
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 The best care for each person differs depending on the patient, the caregivers, and the timing. Ultimately, we all want an environment for the patient that is as comfortable and safe as possible throughout the different stages of this disease. For some patients and caregivers, staying at home throughout the illness may be the best option. But many patients actually benefit by living in a care facility with more people with whom they can interact, activities tailored for their abilities and a routine environment that can also accommodate their frequently disordered schedules. I have seen many, many patients do much better than expected by family and friends when they moved, and it is an option you should consider because you are getting "worn out", which is not good for you or your friend. Some other options to consider include Adult Day Care (a minimum of 3 days/week) and respite care for short-term relief. Explore all options, but do get additional help. Keep in mind, no decision has to be permanent. If a person does not appear to be adjusting in a new place after a month or two, the decision can be revisited or you can consider other options that may work out better. Explore the possibilities with the help of local agencies or the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) in your area. |
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