As a long distance caregiver I struggle with many challenges, even with 7 brothers and sisters to help with my mother’s care. My mom fell in April for no apparent reason. After four days in the hospital the doctors could find no neurological reason and no real physical damage. But a four day stay in the hospital had a huge impact on my mom. She lost 25 pounds that week and was weak after lying in a bed for four days. I cried when my sister described her crawling up the stairs to her bed when they came home. It broke my heart to imagine the scene … this vibrant pillar of a woman who just 3 years ago was hiking in Northern Canada at age 84.
I knew I had to make the trip to see her and could not delay any longer. I made plans to visit for Mother’s Day and invited my daughter, Maureen, so we could all celebrate this special day together. It was a shock to see mom had shrunk. Her height had always towered mine yet now I am 2 inches taller than her. Her clothes hung on her diminished frame yet her feet were so swollen she could only wear slippers. I was afraid to hug her too hard but wanted to hold her in my arms forever. I had four short days to spend with her and help my sister who is her main caregiver.
Mom’s balance was “off” due to her weakened state and loss of weight yet she fought using a walker or cane. She insists she doesn’t need her bedroom moved to the first floor. I was relieved that she allowed me to have an additional railing installed on the stair well so she has adequate support … for now. How long will it be enough?
I anticipated Mother’s Day starting out with Mass and brunch with the family but was heartbroken to hear mom say she wouldn’t be going to church. Church was her life, the parish secretary had just requested her bio for a feature they wanted to do on her. The Bishop’s Committee had recently recognized her for 50 years of service. When I reminded her of the award she looked confused and asked, “What’s Bishop’s Committee?” So … the whole family gathered to celebrate the day and the matriarch, 5 of the 8 children and spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchildren filled the house. She was surrounded by family and for the most part could remember almost everyone. This was her element … family …she loved being surrounded by them and thrived on their presence but after an hour I could see the confusion in her face and knew it was exhausting her. We sat quietly that evening, Maureen, myself and Mom piecing together a puzzle over light conversation. She didn’t remember everyone being there that afternoon.
We saw the Neurologist Monday afternoon after dropping Maureen at the airport. Mom lost another point on her memory screening. The doctor had not received her records from the hospital. We discussed her medications and considered changing to the Aricept 23 but were told the insurance wouldn’t cover it. If we chose to pay privately it could cost several hundred dollars per month. I asked for an extension on her physical therapy as she was still weak after the hospital stay. The swelling in her feet and ankles remained a problem but isn’t going away. The compression stockings were still her best defense. The doctor renewed her prescriptions and we left hoping she wasn’t too tired to shop for shoes that would fit her feet and offer her a solid foundation. We managed to find 2 pair and even got a compression stocking aid to help her get them on. Anyone who has ever had to use them will know what a struggle this can be!
So for 2 more days we cooked and cleaned and talked. She was not happy that we put so much in piles for a garage sale but knowing she wouldn’t remember in a few minutes we kept on. It was obvious she was growing stronger since I’d arrived and she was eating better. My brother who lives with her and is developmentally challenged tries hard but sandwiches just don’t make a healthy meal twice a day, everyday. I filled the freezer with nutritional meals for two hoping they will actually reheat them for dinner. I convinced my sister that it was time to consider outside help, a sitter to relieve her of some of the burden. Even 4 children in town are not able to juggle being there for her. I’d spent nearly every waking hour with her for four and a half days, I’d filled the freezer, I’d installed the railing, I’d seen her doctor, she had new shoes, clean clothes and been bathed. I felt I’d done everything I could in that short time. We’d spent many hours just talking as I cooked or cleaned or drove the car. I hugged and kissed her good-bye trying to remain upbeat more for her sake as I walked to the car. My sister forgot something and ran back in the house giving mom time to walk to the door, to look one more time. She stood there … not with a blank stare … but a forlorn look knowing it may be the last time she saw me. It wrenched my heart … the picture of her standing in that doorway looking so frail and lost will forever be etched in my mind.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Creating Comfort with In-Home Care
It is quite normal for a family caregiver to feel some anxiety when a new person comes into the home to provide assistance, especially so because many caregivers have genuine concerns toward ensuring that the best possible care is provided to their loved one affected by dementia. When considering outside assistance, caregivers should make themselves comfortable in asking some or all of the following questions, prior to selecting an Independent or Agency Provider. This will help to decrease anxiety and promote an overall sense of comfort for everyone, especially for the individual being cared for. Below are some questions that a caregiver may consider.
Questions for an Independent Worker/Caregiver:
1. What kind of work experience do you have in caregiving?
2. What specifically makes you qualified to work with my loved one?
3. Are you comfortable dealing with my loved one’s emotional and/or mental changes?
4. Why are you interested in this type of work?
When asked upfront and respectively, these kinds of questions can create a dialogue for asking and answering all kinds of questions, while also setting an expectation for the kind of care that is sought and deserved.
Questions for an Agency:
1. What kind of background check is performed on the workers?
It's commonplace for employers to do criminal background checks on potential employees. Since trust is critical when hiring someone to help inside of your home setting, a background check can be a valuable screening tool.
2. Do you check your workers' driving record and driver's license?
If you need someone to drive your loved one, even occasionally, it is important to know what kind of driver you may be hiring. Car insurance requirements may differ from state by state. It is advisable to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to see the requirements of your state. If the worker may be driving yours or your loved one’s car, check with the insurance company to find out how to include new drivers.
3. Are your workers bonded?
If someone is bonded, their work is basically insured and your loved one will be covered, in the event that the worker breaks or steals something. Bonding coverage varies, so you can ask for details. It's a level of reassurance that can make a difference; however, it is not necessarily essential to good care.
Do you provide any training for your workers?
If so, ask the agency whether training is done once or on an ongoing basis.
Are the healthcare workers your employees or independent contractors?
Some agencies function more like job referral services, linking independent workers with jobs, rather than managing their own employees. With independent contractors, you will likely be required to do more paperwork and supervision. It is a good idea to be clear about this from the very start.
What kind of supervision do you provide?
How often does the agency check in with its workers…daily or weekly? Is someone available to provide expertise or extra assistance, if needed?
How do you handle a worker's sick days, vacation days, and holidays? Will you automatically send a replacement worker?
Everyone needs breaks and time off, including yourself and those you may hire. Caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding. Find out how agencies cover for worker absences and what's required from your end.
What's the turnover rate of your workers?
Do you think your employed caregivers enjoy their jobs? Do you offer benefits? It is hard to be certain that you will receive an honest answer, but it never hurts to ask. But, remember that one simple truth prevails: People who are happy with their work make better employees.
How do you handle conflict between a client and worker?
It helps to know how much support you'll get from an agency, should a conflict arise. Does the agency mediate conflicts, and if so, how? Is the agency flexible about changing workers, if things don't improve?
Do you have other people that I can talk to about their experiences?
It is perfectly ok to ask for several references. This is one of the best ways to get a sense of how an agency has performed over time.
Do you accept payment from insurance companies?
If your loved-one has long-term care insurance that pays for the cost of in-home care, you may want to make sure that the agency accepts this kind of payment. If not, you are likely better off using one that does.
What kind of service agreement is required?
This will help you to learn of any requirements or commitments on your end, as well as flexibility of services provided.
Will you take care of all required payroll paperwork?
A significant amount of paperwork may be involved when employing someone, covering such matters as taxes, Social Security, and disability. One benefit to hiring from an agency (and the reason it's usually more expensive than hiring independently) is that an agency will normally do this for you. However, it never hurts to double-check to see.
Are you Medicare certified?
Medicare certified agencies are eligible to be paid through Medicare, the government's health coverage for persons over 65. To become Medicare certified, an agency must meet federal standards for patient care.
Can my loved one and I interview candidates and give input on the choice?
The more control you and your loved one have over choosing an in-home health worker, the better you will feel about your choice. Agencies approach this differently, so you may need to ask.
Questions for an Independent Worker/Caregiver:
1. What kind of work experience do you have in caregiving?
2. What specifically makes you qualified to work with my loved one?
3. Are you comfortable dealing with my loved one’s emotional and/or mental changes?
4. Why are you interested in this type of work?
When asked upfront and respectively, these kinds of questions can create a dialogue for asking and answering all kinds of questions, while also setting an expectation for the kind of care that is sought and deserved.
Questions for an Agency:
1. What kind of background check is performed on the workers?
It's commonplace for employers to do criminal background checks on potential employees. Since trust is critical when hiring someone to help inside of your home setting, a background check can be a valuable screening tool.
2. Do you check your workers' driving record and driver's license?
If you need someone to drive your loved one, even occasionally, it is important to know what kind of driver you may be hiring. Car insurance requirements may differ from state by state. It is advisable to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to see the requirements of your state. If the worker may be driving yours or your loved one’s car, check with the insurance company to find out how to include new drivers.
3. Are your workers bonded?
If someone is bonded, their work is basically insured and your loved one will be covered, in the event that the worker breaks or steals something. Bonding coverage varies, so you can ask for details. It's a level of reassurance that can make a difference; however, it is not necessarily essential to good care.
Do you provide any training for your workers?
If so, ask the agency whether training is done once or on an ongoing basis.
Are the healthcare workers your employees or independent contractors?
Some agencies function more like job referral services, linking independent workers with jobs, rather than managing their own employees. With independent contractors, you will likely be required to do more paperwork and supervision. It is a good idea to be clear about this from the very start.
What kind of supervision do you provide?
How often does the agency check in with its workers…daily or weekly? Is someone available to provide expertise or extra assistance, if needed?
How do you handle a worker's sick days, vacation days, and holidays? Will you automatically send a replacement worker?
Everyone needs breaks and time off, including yourself and those you may hire. Caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding. Find out how agencies cover for worker absences and what's required from your end.
What's the turnover rate of your workers?
Do you think your employed caregivers enjoy their jobs? Do you offer benefits? It is hard to be certain that you will receive an honest answer, but it never hurts to ask. But, remember that one simple truth prevails: People who are happy with their work make better employees.
How do you handle conflict between a client and worker?
It helps to know how much support you'll get from an agency, should a conflict arise. Does the agency mediate conflicts, and if so, how? Is the agency flexible about changing workers, if things don't improve?
Do you have other people that I can talk to about their experiences?
It is perfectly ok to ask for several references. This is one of the best ways to get a sense of how an agency has performed over time.
Do you accept payment from insurance companies?
If your loved-one has long-term care insurance that pays for the cost of in-home care, you may want to make sure that the agency accepts this kind of payment. If not, you are likely better off using one that does.
What kind of service agreement is required?
This will help you to learn of any requirements or commitments on your end, as well as flexibility of services provided.
Will you take care of all required payroll paperwork?
A significant amount of paperwork may be involved when employing someone, covering such matters as taxes, Social Security, and disability. One benefit to hiring from an agency (and the reason it's usually more expensive than hiring independently) is that an agency will normally do this for you. However, it never hurts to double-check to see.
Are you Medicare certified?
Medicare certified agencies are eligible to be paid through Medicare, the government's health coverage for persons over 65. To become Medicare certified, an agency must meet federal standards for patient care.
Can my loved one and I interview candidates and give input on the choice?
The more control you and your loved one have over choosing an in-home health worker, the better you will feel about your choice. Agencies approach this differently, so you may need to ask.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
I's All About Perception
At a neighborhood Walmart store recently, a sluggish looking middle-aged man approached me and asked for money to buy milk and bread for his family. He held out his sullied hand and showed me a few dollars and coins he had collected. Without hesitation, I reached for my purse and then gave him a few dollars. Isn’t that what it’s all about – helping thy neighbor? As I was checking out, however, I noticed the same man putting his milk and bread on an unattended counter and walking away, putting his newfound cash flow in his pockets. I watched him as he cautiously looked around him, and as he turned, his eyes met mine. He hung his head and left the store.
Such stories are numerous, and such events advance the human perception of would-be beggars and affect us in ways that make our emotions teeter from guilt to frustration and from sympathy to exasperation.
Human perception is the psychological definition of what we perceive, which despite what some people believe is not always the same as what truly is. In other words, we tend to perceive things the way we want rather than how they are really happening. Our perceptions are based on our life experiences; therefore, the perceptions of two people of the same situation are unlikely to be the same.
I was thinking of “Perception” and how most of the world looks at individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. I believe there is a kind of social stigma about the disease. The individual tends to “hide” the disease as long as he/she can. The family tends to stay in denial with others, using all kinds of creative cover-ups to mask this devastating brain disorder. And with the growing statistics of Alzheimer’s – 5.5 million people now in the U.S.-- the community and the world at-large still seem hesitant to forcibly confront this flooding river called Alzheimer’s disease.
Albeit the denial, the guilt, the discounting that this disease is going to “flood” most everyone’s lives in the very near future, the individual with Alzheimer’s is losing himself and “unlearning” everything he did in his lifetime. The individual’s memory wanes and their loved ones grapple with what once was and will never be again. And, then comes PERCEPTION. That individual CAN’T function, CAN’T have a quality of life, and CAN’T “enjoy” any activities. And last of all, the best thing for that individual is peace and calm and minimal stimulation….just keep them comfortable.
Perception. No two people perceive the same thing, yet the perception of this individual with Alzheimer’s is NOT what is truly happening. Yes, the disease is terminal. However, the disease can prevail for a very long time. Having the perception that the individual with Alzheimer’s has no quality of life, that he should be kept quiet with no activities and no purposeful stimulation, are a few perceptions society needs to change.
For those of you who watch Donald Trump’s “Apprentice” on television, country music star, John Rich, had this to say about his perception of his teammate, Lil’ Jon, a musician and rapper. "I'm very proud of what he [Lil’ Jon] accomplished. He raised a lot of money for his charity but he also successfully broke down a stereotype about guys like him -Rappers. Guys that dress like him. I know that was very important to him, not everybody that dresses like me or you do these certain things that they are stereotyped with and I know that was huge to Lil Jon and he definitely accomplished that." Lil’ Jon accepted the invitation on the show not only to raise money for his dedicated charity, but also to show viewers that Rappers are not all ignorant or on drugs. Perception.
An LSU service-learning student commented to her instructor that she had a prior mental picture of visiting the clients at Charlie’s Place and she was rather fearful. She thought the environment would be quiet, with the clients more or less “watching the grass” grow. However, she was surprised to learn how much joy and fulfillment the clients at Charlie’s Place exuberated, the atmosphere one of security [from an outside world that judges], and that people with Alzheimer’s disease can actually have enjoyment in their lives. Perception.
The stereotypical perception of Alzheimer’s blocks our awareness that the person with the disease can actually have some fruitful and productive time before the disease, like any other, progresses to end-of-life. Though we have to re-introduce ourselves (often) to the person with Alzheimer’s, this new relationship can be one of incredible gratification and lead to a whole new understanding of the disease, which can then begin to change our own PERCEPTION and that of others.
French painter, Robert Delaunay, once said, ‘Our understanding is correlative to our perception.” Once we wholly understand Alzheimer’s and that the individual with the disease can be a productive member of society, that he can have a quality of life, and once we are open and honest about the disease itself, then we can begin to change perceptions about Alzheimer’s disease, and the people diagnosed, in our community and in our world.
Dana Territo
Director of Services
Such stories are numerous, and such events advance the human perception of would-be beggars and affect us in ways that make our emotions teeter from guilt to frustration and from sympathy to exasperation.
Human perception is the psychological definition of what we perceive, which despite what some people believe is not always the same as what truly is. In other words, we tend to perceive things the way we want rather than how they are really happening. Our perceptions are based on our life experiences; therefore, the perceptions of two people of the same situation are unlikely to be the same.
I was thinking of “Perception” and how most of the world looks at individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. I believe there is a kind of social stigma about the disease. The individual tends to “hide” the disease as long as he/she can. The family tends to stay in denial with others, using all kinds of creative cover-ups to mask this devastating brain disorder. And with the growing statistics of Alzheimer’s – 5.5 million people now in the U.S.-- the community and the world at-large still seem hesitant to forcibly confront this flooding river called Alzheimer’s disease.
Albeit the denial, the guilt, the discounting that this disease is going to “flood” most everyone’s lives in the very near future, the individual with Alzheimer’s is losing himself and “unlearning” everything he did in his lifetime. The individual’s memory wanes and their loved ones grapple with what once was and will never be again. And, then comes PERCEPTION. That individual CAN’T function, CAN’T have a quality of life, and CAN’T “enjoy” any activities. And last of all, the best thing for that individual is peace and calm and minimal stimulation….just keep them comfortable.
Perception. No two people perceive the same thing, yet the perception of this individual with Alzheimer’s is NOT what is truly happening. Yes, the disease is terminal. However, the disease can prevail for a very long time. Having the perception that the individual with Alzheimer’s has no quality of life, that he should be kept quiet with no activities and no purposeful stimulation, are a few perceptions society needs to change.
For those of you who watch Donald Trump’s “Apprentice” on television, country music star, John Rich, had this to say about his perception of his teammate, Lil’ Jon, a musician and rapper. "I'm very proud of what he [Lil’ Jon] accomplished. He raised a lot of money for his charity but he also successfully broke down a stereotype about guys like him -Rappers. Guys that dress like him. I know that was very important to him, not everybody that dresses like me or you do these certain things that they are stereotyped with and I know that was huge to Lil Jon and he definitely accomplished that." Lil’ Jon accepted the invitation on the show not only to raise money for his dedicated charity, but also to show viewers that Rappers are not all ignorant or on drugs. Perception.
An LSU service-learning student commented to her instructor that she had a prior mental picture of visiting the clients at Charlie’s Place and she was rather fearful. She thought the environment would be quiet, with the clients more or less “watching the grass” grow. However, she was surprised to learn how much joy and fulfillment the clients at Charlie’s Place exuberated, the atmosphere one of security [from an outside world that judges], and that people with Alzheimer’s disease can actually have enjoyment in their lives. Perception.
The stereotypical perception of Alzheimer’s blocks our awareness that the person with the disease can actually have some fruitful and productive time before the disease, like any other, progresses to end-of-life. Though we have to re-introduce ourselves (often) to the person with Alzheimer’s, this new relationship can be one of incredible gratification and lead to a whole new understanding of the disease, which can then begin to change our own PERCEPTION and that of others.
French painter, Robert Delaunay, once said, ‘Our understanding is correlative to our perception.” Once we wholly understand Alzheimer’s and that the individual with the disease can be a productive member of society, that he can have a quality of life, and once we are open and honest about the disease itself, then we can begin to change perceptions about Alzheimer’s disease, and the people diagnosed, in our community and in our world.
Dana Territo
Director of Services
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Using a Calendar with Alzheimer's Patients
A calendar is an excellent prompt to use with the Alzheimer’s patient. The calendar can help that person focus on an object they can touch and see that can help them register their days and help them focus as that ability to focus becomes more difficult. It can be very comforting to the patient.
A calendar reminds the patient of each day’s activities and helps them register what happened yesterday or in previous weeks. Using small store bought stickers or making simple drawings on important days helps remind the patient of family birthdays, anniversaries, appointments, etc.
A simple wall calendar or planner type calendar kept in the same place daily is recommended. It is important that the calendar be age appropriate and as plain as possible, Busy, colorful pictures or scenes are very distracting.
The calendar can prompt discussion with the caregiver and, sometimes, the patient may want to doodle or write on the calendar if he/she is capable.
By Marcia L. Kirk
Respite Center Coordinator Assistant
A calendar reminds the patient of each day’s activities and helps them register what happened yesterday or in previous weeks. Using small store bought stickers or making simple drawings on important days helps remind the patient of family birthdays, anniversaries, appointments, etc.
A simple wall calendar or planner type calendar kept in the same place daily is recommended. It is important that the calendar be age appropriate and as plain as possible, Busy, colorful pictures or scenes are very distracting.
The calendar can prompt discussion with the caregiver and, sometimes, the patient may want to doodle or write on the calendar if he/she is capable.
By Marcia L. Kirk
Respite Center Coordinator Assistant
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Skydiving and Alzheimer's
This past weekend I joined my daughter in Texas and we spent the Mother’s Day weekend skydiving for the first time. Two thoughts became very clear to me. One, there is nothing like jumping out of an airplane and the feeling of falling. And two, as soon as I exited the plane, it hit me; I’m pretty much on my own. If I need something, nobody can be there to help me. I’m just falling through the air.
I’m lucky in that nobody in my family has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. I came to Alzheimer’s Services as a development associate just a little over a month ago. I replaced Tammi deGeneres. Each week, a different employee writes the blog and this week is my turn. Part of my job is the Walk/Run to Remember which takes place on October 15 this year. There is a link on the website to learn more about this event or start a team. Feel free to call me if you have questions. The other part of my job is public relations. I am thoroughly enjoying my employment at Alzheimer’s.
Some days I get to go over to Charlie’s Place to take photos and enjoy the activities. This is one of the perks of my position. Charlie’s Place is wonderful, but to anyone who has seen it, I don’t have to tell you that. You have seen it for yourselves. The first time I visited Charlie’s Place I was not expecting it to be so warm, inviting and happy. We host here at the office a “Cause to Remember” twice a month. We invite folks to come by, have lunch and spend about an hour learning more about us and you get to tour Charlie’s Place. I would highly recommend coming and seeing for yourself. Debbie Little, Development Director is in charge of that. She does an excellent job! Along with this informational event we do several others, like our support groups, Lunch-N-Learns, and various other educational programs. Dana, Julie and Rashida present those well.
Now back to skydiving and that feeling of being in a serious situation without a net or any back-up, Alzheimer’s caregivers don’t have to feel that way. We are here to support you and with our varied programs, I think there is something to help everyone cope with this disease. Give us a call!
I’m lucky in that nobody in my family has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. I came to Alzheimer’s Services as a development associate just a little over a month ago. I replaced Tammi deGeneres. Each week, a different employee writes the blog and this week is my turn. Part of my job is the Walk/Run to Remember which takes place on October 15 this year. There is a link on the website to learn more about this event or start a team. Feel free to call me if you have questions. The other part of my job is public relations. I am thoroughly enjoying my employment at Alzheimer’s.
Some days I get to go over to Charlie’s Place to take photos and enjoy the activities. This is one of the perks of my position. Charlie’s Place is wonderful, but to anyone who has seen it, I don’t have to tell you that. You have seen it for yourselves. The first time I visited Charlie’s Place I was not expecting it to be so warm, inviting and happy. We host here at the office a “Cause to Remember” twice a month. We invite folks to come by, have lunch and spend about an hour learning more about us and you get to tour Charlie’s Place. I would highly recommend coming and seeing for yourself. Debbie Little, Development Director is in charge of that. She does an excellent job! Along with this informational event we do several others, like our support groups, Lunch-N-Learns, and various other educational programs. Dana, Julie and Rashida present those well.
Now back to skydiving and that feeling of being in a serious situation without a net or any back-up, Alzheimer’s caregivers don’t have to feel that way. We are here to support you and with our varied programs, I think there is something to help everyone cope with this disease. Give us a call!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
URINARY TRACT INFECTION & ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infections. Women get urinary tract infections more often than men. Women who have had three urinary tract infections often continue having them. Four out of five such women get another UTI within 18 months of the last UTI infection.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of urinary tract infections and get it treated quickly. Infections of the urinary system (the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra) can be very serious - even life threatening. Caring for someone who has Alzheimer's disease or dementia poses particular problems. They may not be able to verbalize sufficiently well to tell you how they feel or what exactly is wrong. It means it is important to be aware that certain symptoms may mean a person has a urinary tract infection.
Urinary tract infection in the elderly or in people with Alzheimer's can profoundly affect, not only their health, but can result in significant behavioral changes such as increasing confusion and/or aggression. It is always worth considering changes in behavior may be due to infections like a urinary infection or constipation etc.
Causes of urinary tract infections and Alzheimer's diseaseSome people are more likely to get a urinary tract infection than others.
· In women the rate of urinary tract infections gradually increases with age. Why women are more prone to urinary infections than men is unclear.
· People with diabetes have a higher risk of a UTI because of changes in the immune system. Any disorder that suppresses the immune system raises the risk of a urinary infection.
· Any abnormality of the urinary tract that obstructs the flow of urine such as a kidney stone or enlarged prostate gland can slow the flow of urine, thus raising the risk of infection.
Signs/ Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection
· The urine will look cloudy or milky. If blood is present then the color will be reddish color
· Urine can often smell offensive.
· Nausea and even vomiting may occur in kidney infections.
· Frequent urge to urinate but often the amount of urine passed is small.
· Fatigue (you will notice that the person with Alzheimer's may be less willing to carry out tasks or be more reluctant to eat or exercise.)
· Fever (this may mean that the infection has moved into the kidney.)
· Painful, burning sensations in the area of the bladder or urethra, during urination. The person with Alzheimer's may cry out or show distress when urinating.
· Back pain (someone with Alzheimer's may clutch or rub their back.)
· Sudden changes in behavior can be caused by infections such as UTI.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of urinary tract infections and get it treated quickly. Infections of the urinary system (the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra) can be very serious - even life threatening. Caring for someone who has Alzheimer's disease or dementia poses particular problems. They may not be able to verbalize sufficiently well to tell you how they feel or what exactly is wrong. It means it is important to be aware that certain symptoms may mean a person has a urinary tract infection.
Urinary tract infection in the elderly or in people with Alzheimer's can profoundly affect, not only their health, but can result in significant behavioral changes such as increasing confusion and/or aggression. It is always worth considering changes in behavior may be due to infections like a urinary infection or constipation etc.
Causes of urinary tract infections and Alzheimer's diseaseSome people are more likely to get a urinary tract infection than others.
· In women the rate of urinary tract infections gradually increases with age. Why women are more prone to urinary infections than men is unclear.
· People with diabetes have a higher risk of a UTI because of changes in the immune system. Any disorder that suppresses the immune system raises the risk of a urinary infection.
· Any abnormality of the urinary tract that obstructs the flow of urine such as a kidney stone or enlarged prostate gland can slow the flow of urine, thus raising the risk of infection.
Signs/ Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection
· The urine will look cloudy or milky. If blood is present then the color will be reddish color
· Urine can often smell offensive.
· Nausea and even vomiting may occur in kidney infections.
· Frequent urge to urinate but often the amount of urine passed is small.
· Fatigue (you will notice that the person with Alzheimer's may be less willing to carry out tasks or be more reluctant to eat or exercise.)
· Fever (this may mean that the infection has moved into the kidney.)
· Painful, burning sensations in the area of the bladder or urethra, during urination. The person with Alzheimer's may cry out or show distress when urinating.
· Back pain (someone with Alzheimer's may clutch or rub their back.)
· Sudden changes in behavior can be caused by infections such as UTI.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
My Perspective
My name is Cheryl Davis, I interned with Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area this semester. As my internship nears its end, I am reminded of the great need for a place such as Alzheimer’s Services. I was a caregiver of a grandfather with Alzheimer’s, but had no education on giving care or support. If only I had known about Alzheimer’s Services.
In the few months that I was here, so many families have been helped. There is so much information on the disease, support groups, sitter services, even Charlie’s Place! I was so encouraged by the love and hope that I saw instilled in the caregivers who came to or called our offices desperate for help. The staff is so helpful and loving. I had quite a few experiences while interning; from preparing for our annual education conference, to going with the caregivers and clients on an outing where we each painted a lovely picture. I was even able to lead a caregiver support group and we talked about caregiver stress; something I as a nurse know quite a bit about. I learned a lot.
When I was informed by Southeastern Louisiana University that my curriculum included an internship, I wasn’t sure if I could do it. I had to get used to being in one place all day, because my job has me driving from place to place. Everything went well for me and the staff was so patient and kind. I am extremely thankful for the experience, and will forever cherish my time spent with Julie and the Alzheimer’s Services staff.
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