cares_logo
Search

Author: Swikruti Kar

Alzheimer’s Care: Antipsychotic Medications

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

Some of the people you care for may be taking antipsychotic medications. These are meant to treat serious mental illnesses (SMI) like major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When the person also has Alzheimer’s disease, it is important that they remain on these medications to treat their mental illness.

Sometimes, however, antipsychotic medications are used with people who don’t have SMI but exhibit dementia-related behavior that is challenging for staff members. The problem is that this is an “off-label” or unintended use of these medications, and it may lead to dangerous side effects for the person such as excessive sleepiness, dizziness, unsteadiness, reduced wellbeing, social withdrawal, and sometimes even stroke. Moreover, many states actually consider antipsychotic medications to be a form of restraint.

If you notice any of these side effects, tell a nurse or your supervisor.

What Can You Do?

The question is, how do organizations and staff members deal with dementia-related behavior if they do not use antipsychotics? That’s where a person-centered approach like CARES® can make a big difference. CARES is an easy-to-learn approach that you can use in any situation and at any stage of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRD), which often helps reduce behavior like repetitive questioning, “shadowing,” swearing, hitting, or biting. And when there is less dementia-related behavior, facility and agency medical staff may no longer need to prescribe as many antipsychotic medications.

By adopting person-centered strategies like the CARES® approach, caregivers can effectively manage dementia-related behaviors while reducing reliance on antipsychotic medications.

To help you get started, we’re offering an exclusive opportunity to enhance your dementia care skills.

Save 15% on CARES® Dementia Certifications with code CDS15PROMO at checkout, and gain free access to Module 1 at www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo.

Take advantage of this limited-time offer and empower yourself to provide compassionate, effective care.

Understanding Dementia Behavior as Communication

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

Understanding Behavior

Dementia changes how people think and understand their surroundings. As time goes on, it becomes harder for them to process and respond to the world around them. This can leave them feeling overwhelmed, confused, or scared. Their emotions and behavior are often ways of communicating how they feel. For example, in dementia communication can be challenging, as people living with dementia might not react well to the care you provide. They may repeat the same question, say unkind things, or become upset. In some cases, they may even hit, bite, or kick. These actions are not intentional or meant to cause harm—they are simply the person’s way of responding to their situation.

Every behavior is a form of communication, and this includes both challenging and positive behaviors. Understanding dementia behavior involves recognizing that while people with dementia may act out in frustration, they are also capable of smiling, laughing, holding your hand, or giving hugs. These are all ways they communicate, too. Taking the time to learn about the people you care for—their history, preferences, and needs—will help you better understand their behavior. It can also give you ideas on how to make them feel more comfortable, less anxious, and more at ease in their environment.

Behavior as Communication

The first thing you have to know is people with dementia aren’t trying to cause problems; they’re struggling to communicate due to their condition. in dementia communication often reflects pain, discomfort, or unmet needs. For example, a sore shoulder might lead to pushing or hitting when they can’t verbalize their pain. Behavior in dementia care should be seen as a form of communication, and it’s important to investigate causes, such as medical issues, environmental factors, or emotional needs. Addressing behavioral triggers in dementia, like overstimulation, loneliness, or boredom, can help alleviate challenges and improve their quality of life.

Enhance your ability to understand and manage dementia-related behavior with HCI’s special offer! Buy 1 CARES® Certification and Get 1 FREE by using the promo code FreeCertPromo at checkout.

Understanding that every behavior is a form of communication is key to providing compassionate care. Learn how to recognize pain, discomfort, and unmet needs in those with dementia, and explore non-pharmacologic therapies like music therapy and multisensory stimulation to ease anxiety and improve quality of life.

Start now and gain access to Module 1 for free at www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo.

Don’t miss out—this limited-time offer is available now!

Alzheimer’s Disease and Depression

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

The Alzheimer’s Association reports that many people with Alzheimer’s disease also experience depression, particularly in the early and middle stages. There is treatment available, it’s possible to improve a person’s quality of life by treating their depression.

Signs of Depression

How can you tell if someone you’re caring for is depressed? It can be tricky, as Alzheimer’s disease shares symptoms with depression. But there are some signs of depression in dementia that you should consider.

Common signs include:

• Loss of interest in activities and hobbies
• Withdrawal from friends and social activities
• Memory problems
• Trouble concentrating
• Sleeping too much or too little

As Alzheimer’s progresses it becomes more difficult for the person to identify and communicate feelings such as sadness, hopelessness, or loneliness. If you notice signs of depression, consult with the care team to reach out to their doctor.

Diagnosing Depression

Diagnosing depression in someone with Alzheimer’s disease is important but challenging. It involves a thorough evaluation, where doctors interact with the person, observe their behavior, and review reports from caregivers and other staff members. If you notice signs of depression, consult with someone on the care team to contact the person’s doctor.

Treating Depression

When a person with dementia is also depressed, seeking treatment is essential for improving their quality of life. Treatment options may include medication, counselling, and re-engaging with people or activities that bring them joy. It is not helpful to tell the person to “cheer up,” “snap out of it”, or “try harder.”

For more information about the diagnosis and treatment of depression in people with Alzheimer’s disease, please visit the free preview of CARES Dementa 5-Step Method at www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo.

Supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s who may also experience depression requires a compassionate approach.

Equip yourself with the skills to make a difference by exploring the CARES® Dementia Certifications. For a limited time, save 15% on certifications with code CDS15PROMO at checkout.

Empower yourself to provide better care and improve the quality of life for those you support. Get a free demo!

Alternatives of Alzheimer’s medications

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

The first approach to dealing with dementia-related behavior should not involve medication. There are many alternatives those’re worth considering. These choices may make the person feel more relaxed, safe, and secure. These kinds of treatments are commonly known as “non-pharmacologic therapies.
Therapies

• Aromatherapy
• Massage therapy
• Bright light therapy
• Pet therapy
• Music therapy
• Validation therapy (accepting the person’s reality)
• Multisensory stimulation (combination of light, calming sounds, smells, and/or touch)

Other dementia non-drug treatments you can do with the person, even if you are not a therapist

• Listen to music, play an instrument, or sing a song.
• Do word games.
• Cook.
• Garden.
• Look at photos or other familiar items.
• Give the person a light massage or gentle touch.

The Effects of Non-Pharmacologic Therapies

While these non-drug treatments, like current medications for Alzheimer’s symptoms, do not slow the disease’s progression, they can help the individual feel more comforted and engaged, making it easier for you to provide better care.

Discover effective, dementia non-drug treatments for managing alzheimer’s-related behavior with HCI’s exclusive offer! Buy 1 CARES® Certification and Get 1 FREE using promo code FreeCertPromo at checkout.

Learn how to incorporate therapies like aromatherapy, music therapy, and multisensory stimulation into your care approach and improve the quality of life for those you support.

Get started today with a free preview of Module 1 at www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo. This limited-time offer won’t last long—take advantage now!

Current Alzheimer’s Medications

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

Some of the people you care for might be taking medication for Alzheimer’s. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two types of medication to treat the disease:

1. Cholinesterase inhibitors: The most common ones are Donepezil (Aricept®), Rivastigmine (Exelon®), and Galantamine (Reminyl®).

2. Memantine (Namenda®)

While these medications can temporarily improve symptoms, they won’t slow the disease progression. They may also cause side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, headaches, constipation, confusion, and dizziness. In some cases, patients may experience more severe reactions. If you observe any of these symptoms or notice any unusual changes, be sure to inform a nurse or your supervisor as soon as possible.

Can Dementia Be Reversed?

In some cases, yes. Certain conditions can cause symptoms that resemble dementia, but these symptoms often improve or disappear once the underlying condition is treated. It’s important to identify the root cause, as treating the condition early can prevent further cognitive decline. These conditions include:

• Medication side effects

• Excessive use of alcohol

• Malnutrition

• Vitamin deficiencies

• Certain infections such as a urinary tract infection (UTI)

• Diabetes

• Some problems with the heart or other organs

However, it’s important to note that many forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, are not reversible. While some symptoms may be managed, the underlying disease process cannot be stopped or reversed. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

Take care of your loved ones with HCI’s exclusive offer designed just for you.BUY 1 CARES Certification and GET 1 FREE! Apply promo code FreeCertPromo at checkout to redeem this offer.

Experience a complimentary preview by visiting: www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo

Get started now!! This offer is available for a limited time only!

The Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

Alzheimer’s disease is commonly described in three stages- early, middle, and late. The symptoms vary depending on the stage, and not everyone experiences the same symptoms or progresses through the stages in the same way. Each stage includes a range of possible characteristics.

The Stages of Alzheimer’s and How to Handle Them

Normal Thinking – No Symptoms:

The term “Normal Thinking” is used to describe individuals who do not have Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. These individuals are capable of living independently and managing their own care. It is normal for people to forget things occasionally and then recall them later, as this is a natural part of aging. Similarly, changes in physical abilities are also a normal aspect of getting older. In general, someone with normal thinking does not exhibit consistent signs or symptoms of dementia. It is important to note that Alzheimer’s disease is not a typical part of the aging process, and unlike the Stages of Alzheimer’s, which represent a gradual decline in cognitive function, normal aging does not lead to such significant memory loss or impairment.

Early Stage – Mild Symptoms

People in the early stage of Alzheimer can usually live independently and handle most daily activities. However, in the beginning stages of Alzheimer, they may need help to stay safe and maintain independence. They might struggle with remembering names, finding words, managing money, paying bills, and learning new things. Offering support can assist them in completing tasks, maintaining routines, and staying organized.

In the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms are mild. The key for you is to provide support in the person’s daily routine. Written notes can be useful.

Middle Stage – moderate symptoms

The middle stage of Alzheimer’s is the longest Alzheimer stage, often lasting for several years and requiring more care as it progresses. It often becomes unsafe for the person to drive. Behavioral and communication changes occur, with difficulty expressing needs, emotions, and completing complex tasks. Confusion about time and place becomes more frequent during this stage.

During the middle stage, it’s important to be patient as the person’s thinking changes. They may mix up identities, repeat stories, struggle with tasks, or need help choosing clothing. Behavioral changes, like fidgeting or kicking, may occur. They might nap often, wake up at night, or have trouble with bladder control.

Late Stage – Severe symptoms

In the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, most individuals require full-time, around-the-clock assistance with daily personal care. Their physical abilities decline significantly, including walking, sitting, and eventually swallowing. At this stage, they are unable to understand goals, maintain focus, or complete tasks involving multiple steps on their own. Nonverbal communication becomes particularly important during this time.

In the late stage of Alzheimer’s, symptoms are severe. It’s important to reduce chaos by being mindful of noise and activity levels. Even if the person no longer understands words, they will still respond to your tone and body language. Ensure they feel safe and comfortable. You may notice that the person:

• Does not recognize themselves or close family

• Refuses to eat, chokes, or forgets to swallow

• Loses control of bowel and bladder

• Appears uncomfortable or cries out when moved or touched

• Sleeps more

• Needs full assistance with daily activities

Tests and Evaluations for Dementia

There are many medical tests to see if you have conditions like strep throat or the flu. Similarly, there are also many tests to help diagnose dementia. These tests include:

Cognitive Tests: These tests evaluate things like memory, language, special skills, and math skills.

Laboratory Tests: These tests evaluate things like blood levels, vitamin levels, and hormones.

Brain Scans: These tests evaluate things like previous strokes, tumors, and brain activity.

Psychiatric Tests: These tests evaluate things like depression or serious mental illnesses.

Genetic Tests: These tests evaluate whether a person is at risk for dementia because of family history.

The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. But, a full medical and cognitive evaluation can help rule out other forms of dementia, conditions, and factors.

Take advantage of this special opportunity to enhance your expertise with our exclusive promotion:

BUY 1 CARES Certification and GET 1 FREE!

Apply promo code FreeCertPromo at checkout to redeem this offer.

Experience a complimentary preview by visiting: www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo

Get started now!! This offer is available for a limited time only!

Alzheimer’s Disease and Types of Dementia

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

Dementia encompasses over 200 conditions characterized by cognitive decline, with Alzheimer’s disease accounting for 60-80% of cases. Together, Alzheimer’s and related progressive dementias are referred to as ADRD (Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias).

Common Types of Dementia

1. Vascular Dementia: Often follows a stroke, causing reduced blood flow to the brain, affecting memory and thinking.

2. Parkinson’s Disease Dementia: Affects 50-80% of Parkinson’s patients, causing memory loss, hallucinations, and muffled speech.

2. Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: Excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, leading to walking difficulties and cognitive challenges.

4. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease: A rare, rapidly progressing condition causing confusion, mood changes, and difficulty walking.

5. Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB): Abnormal protein deposits in nerve cells causing memory loss, hallucinations, and sleep issues.

6. Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): Impacts those in their 50s-60s, causing personality changes, memory loss, and language difficulties.

7. Huntington’s Disease: Inherited, progressive decline in thinking skills and physical control.

8. Mixed Dementia: A combination of types, often Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.

Why It Matters

Understanding dementia types helps tailor care and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis supports better symptom management and provides clarity for families and caregivers. By learning about dementia’s many forms, we can better address its challenges and provide compassionate support.

Cognitive Impairment and Mild Cognitive Impairment

Did you know that some states use the term “Cognitive Impairment” (CI) as a general term for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias? Cognitive impairment is defined as “confusion or memory loss that is happening more often or is getting worse during the past 12 months.”

It’s important to note that Cognitive Impairment (CI) is not the same as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). While CI can encompass a range of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, MCI is not a type of dementia.

Instead, MCI is a condition that causes changes in thinking that are noticeable but not severe enough to interfere with daily life. Recognizing the distinction between these terms is essential for understanding the spectrum of cognitive changes and seeking the appropriate care or intervention.

Special Offer Alert!

Take advantage of this special opportunity to enhance your expertise with our exclusive promotion:

BUY 1 CARES Certification and GET 1 FREE!

Apply promo code FreeCertPromo at checkout to redeem this offer.

Experience a complimentary preview by visiting: www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo

Get started now!! This offer is available for a limited time only!

How Dementia Affects Thinking Skills

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

Dementia affects different parts of the brain in different ways, and symptoms don’t follow a set order. Understanding these thinking skills can help you notice the changes and support them better.

If the person you’re caring for can’t put on their sweater without help, it might be because-

• There’s damage to the part of their brain that controls motor skills (for example, they can’t lift their arm into the sleeve).

• They have trouble with perception (for example, they see the sweater as a blanket instead of clothing).

• They have difficulty with judgment (for example, they don’t realize it’s cold and they need a sweater).

What can you do? Sometimes all it takes are some short reminders: “You look cold. This is your sweater. Let’s put it on this arm first.”

Key Functions Affected by Dementia

1. Motor skill:

in dementia some people have problems with coordination, balance, and fine movements, making everyday tasks like walking, dressing, or eating more difficult.

These challenges can lead to clumsiness, instability, and trouble with swallowing or chewing, increasing the risk of falls and making daily routines harder to manage.

2. Perception:

Perception issues in dementia involve difficulty recognizing familiar objects, not due to vision problems, but because of brain impairment in interpreting what is seen. And sometimes they may misinterpret common objects, like mistaking a black carpet for a hole or a glossy floor for water. Naming objects in their environment can help them recognize and understand what they are seeing.

3. Language:

This problem mostly starts with subtle word-finding difficulties, similar to the common ‘tip-of-the-tongue’ feeling. These dementia speech problems become more frequent as dementia progresses. While word usage becomes harder, the emotional meaning behind what is said remains intact. Focus on their emotions—whether they feel pain, insecurity, or discomfort—using tone and body language to understand their message.

4. Attention:

Attention issues in dementia make it difficult to focus on a task or conversation, as distractions pull attention away easily. And they experience “tunnel vision,” focusing on one thing at a time while everything else fades. To help you can minimize distractions and guide them back to the task or conversation.

5. Memory:

Like it sounds. Dementia memory problems affect the person’s ability to recall personal experiences, details, and past routines. To support them, you should focus on asking about familiar topics like past work or where they went to school. This helps them feel secure and maintain a sense of identity.

6. Judgment:

Judgment difficulties in dementia occur due to issues with memory, language, and reasoning, making it harder for individuals to make decisions or understand situations. To provide clear and simple choices to help with decision-making, such as “bath in the morning or evening,” avoiding broad or open-ended questions.

7. Abstract thinking:

makes it difficult to grasp concepts like time, sarcasm, or figurative expressions that require interpretation beyond their literal meaning. With this problem communication should be straightforward, avoiding sarcasm, slang, and abstract expressions to ensure clarity.

CARES Tip

Dementia affects each person differently, leading to varying levels of memory, thinking, and behavior changes. Alongside cognitive decline, physical and social abilities may also be impacted. However, it’s important to remember that these changes are only part of the person. Focus on their remaining strengths rather than what has been lost to support their dignity and well-being.

Take advantage of our limited-time offer! Enjoy exclusive deals tailored for you. Contact us today!

Save 15% on all CARES Dementia Certifications—just use the purchase code “CDS15PROMO” at checkout.

Start now! Visit www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo for free access to Module 1!

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a broad term used to describe the loss of memory and other cognitive abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. Among the various forms of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common. While dementia encompasses multiple conditions, Alzheimer’s is a specific and terminal disease, meaning that unless other causes intervene, individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s will eventually succumb to it.

After age 65, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease doubles every five years. By age 85, the risk escalates to nearly 50 percent. Despite extensive research, scientists have not fully uncovered the exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. However, it is clear that the condition results from numerous changes in the brain that occur over time.

Critical Concept: Most people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s live an average of 4 to 8 years. However, some may survive for 15 to 20 years, or even longer.

Alzheimer’s Disease and the Brain

The physical impact of Alzheimer’s disease on the brain is profound. Images of a healthy brain compared to an Alzheimer’s-affected brain reveal significant shrinkage and damage. Alzheimer’s disease directly affects the brain, altering its structure and functions.

These changes are not visible from the outside, leading to common misconceptions. For example, people may assume that the actions or behaviors of someone with Alzheimer’s are intentional, without understanding that these behaviors stem from irreversible changes in the brain.

How Alzheimer’s Affects the Brain

The human brain is composed of approximately 100 billion neurons (nerve cells) that form connections at more than 100 trillion points, creating what scientists refer to as a “neuron forest.” Signals within the brain travel as tiny electrical charges, forming the foundation of our memories, thoughts, and emotions. When these electrical charges reach connection points, they release chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which transmit signals to other parts of the body.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, it destroys these neurons and neurotransmitters, disrupting the intricate signaling pathways. This destruction leads to the symptoms commonly associated with the disease, such as memory loss, confusion, and behavioral changes.

Key Takeaways

• Dementia is a general term; Alzheimer’s is its most common and severe form.

• Alzheimer’s causes brain shrinkage and behavioral changes due to neuron loss.

• Understanding these changes can lead to more compassionate care for those affected.

Sign up for our free program today and gain the tools and support needed to transform dementia care. Let’s work together to improve the lives of those living with dementia.

Access it now for free at www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo

Introduction to Dementia

Posted on by Swikruti Kar

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are complex conditions that affect millions of individuals and their families worldwide. Understanding these conditions, their effects, and ways to provide effective care is crucial for caregivers. Below are some essential insights to guide your journey in caregiving.

1. Differences Between Normal Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease

Understanding how normal aging differs from Alzheimer’s Disease is vital. While normal aging may involve occasional forgetfulness, Alzheimer’s disease involves more profound memory loss and cognitive decline that impact daily living.

2. Thinking Skills Affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias

Dementia impacts several cognitive functions, including memory, reasoning, judgment, and communication. Recognizing these changes can help caregivers adapt their approach to provide better support.

3. Key Facts About Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, characterized by progressive memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with everyday tasks. Awareness of these facts aids in early recognition and care.

4. Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s progresses through 3 distinct stages: early, middle, and late. Each stage is marked by changes in a person’s ability to perform activities. From mild memory lapses in early stages to severe impairment in late stages, understanding various stages of dementia helps caregivers provide better preparation and support.

5. Activities for Each Stage of Alzheimer’s

Engaging individuals in meaningful activities tailored to their stage of Alzheimer’s is essential. For example, simple puzzles or reminiscing activities can be suitable in earlier stages, while sensory stimulation may be more appropriate in later stages.

6. Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease or many related dementias; however, some FDA-approved medications can help slow cognitive decline. Most treatments focus on improving the person’s quality of life and providing relief from symptoms.

7. Depression in Dementia

Depression is common among individuals with dementia. If signs such as sadness, low energy, or social isolation are present, it’s important to consult a medical professional for an evaluation. Appropriate treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with dementia.

Providing care for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia requires patience, understanding, and knowledge. By focusing on these key areas, caregivers can make a significant difference in the lives of those they support.

Take advantage of our limited-time offer! Enjoy exclusive deals tailored for you. Contact us today! Save 15% on all CARES Dementia Certifications—just use the purchase code CDS15PROMO at checkout.

Start now! Visit www.hcinteractive.com/5StepDemo for free access to Module 1!