Issue 42.12
Dementia is a neurological disorder that affects the ability to think, reason, remember, speak and move. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. However, many other conditions also cause these symptoms.
The three most common forms of dementia are Alzheimer’s disease, Vascular Dementia, and Lewy Body Dementia. Often times a person can have more than one of these disorders.
Some of these disorders are progressive and incurable; others can be treated and reversed. Because more than fifty diseases can cause dementia or similar symptoms, a thorough medical evaluation should be requested from a qualified physician.
The number of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease has more than doubled since 1980. Many studies predict as many as 16 million may be affected by 2050.
Until the late 1980’s, virtually all dementia care was provided either by caregivers in the home or in skilled nursing facilities such as nursing homes. With the advent of assisted living, families with sufficient funds have been increasingly attracted to this alternative. Those suffering from later stages of dementia are often placed into what are commonly referred to as “memory care” or “special needs” units. This may be a stand alone building or often times a secured wing within an assisted living facility.
Some families choose to hire outside caregivers to perform a variety of dementia related care services in the home. This option however can be fraught with problems and financial risks many of which are not covered by the caregiver or the homeowner’s general liability insurance. A few of the most frequent problems which arise with an at home care service are: theft, abuse, injury to resident, wander risk, work-related accidents, lack of 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency, etc… Because of this, assisted living facilities are becoming the preferred choice for families; especially when it comes to dementia care.
We strongly encourage you to consult a physician if you suspect your loved one may be showing signs of dementia. Your suspicion could save his or her life.
The Retreat at SunRiver offers a state-of-the-art memory care wing which includes a comfortable home-like setting and a top-notch team of dedicated professionals. Please call us at 435-256-8900 or check us out on the web at www.SunRiverAssisted Living.com. We look forward to hearing from you.