10 Things Every Alzheimer's Caregiver Needs to Know and Discuss with Their Doctor

TheAmerican Geriatrics Society has published a list of ten things doctors and their patients should consider, know and understand.I think it is important forevery caregiver of a person living with Alzheimer's, or a related dementia, todiscuss these 10 issues with the doctor. Doing this in advance might be one of the most important caregiverdecisions you can make.It might also be a good idea toshare this article in support groups, and bookmark (save) it so you can find it when you need it.What is Alzheimer's Disease?By Carole Larkinhttp://www.alzheimersreadingroom.comI think this is an important list of things that need to be talked about in regard to every older adult (over 65 years old) with dementia by that patient and/or their families.Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading RoomEmail:1. Don ’t put in feeding tubes (directly into the stomach) in people with advanced dementia.Instead let them try to eat through the mouth with assistance. (Opinion) Feeding tubes do more harm than good. It doesn ’t lengthen life much and they can still take the food into their lungs (aspirate) and suffocate to death.The Caregiver Brain2. Don't use anti psychotics (examples: Risperdal, Abilify, Seroquel, Zyprexa and Geodone) right away when someone is agitated, combative, violent or just non compliant. Use behavioral techniques first. (Opinion) I couldn ’t agree more. Many times they do more harm than good. We are such a pill popping society. I wish doctors wouldn’t just reach f...
Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: alzheimer care care of dementia patients dementia help for caregivers elderly dementia care geriatrics health help alzheimer's help with dementia help with dementia care life news memory care facility Source Type: blogs