Three-Tier Approach to Alzheimer’s Care
The number of seniors living in the United States with Alzheimer’s is expected to grow exponentially over the next 20 years, doubling from today’s 5.1 million seniors. Unfortunately for many of these individuals who find themselves in the hospital, the level of care that they receive is compromised. Not all seniors receive a formal Alzheimer’s diagnosis, and when they enter the hospital for another reason, their cognitive impairment can go undetected, resulting in inadequate treatment. A new approach aimed to improve care for Alzheimer’s patients has been suggested and
is based on the following components:
1. Screening upon admission to the hospital – rather than learning that a senior has Alzheimer’s or dementia retroactively following a medical issue, this approach ensures seniors are screened when admitted to the hospital
2. Education of the nurses and medical practitioners – there are three levels of care depending upon patient needs, but all of them ensure that all medical professionals responsible for the care of a senior are aware of their Alzheimer’s diagnosis
3. Planning for the future – right from the time of admission in this three-tier program, medical professionals talk with seniors and family members about preparing for the future, and arrangements that will need to be made for discharge. For those who require more comprehensive care, follow-ups are conducted to ensure that a senior’s health comes first
Via: Hospitals and Health Networks
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Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.
