Care for Alzheimer’s Disease Patients

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are as many as 5.8 million people with dementia and Alzheimer’s in the United States. This number includes people 65 and older and those under 65 with younger-onset Alzheimer’s. Over the course of life, many will come to know someone struggling with Alzheimer’s.

When your loved one has Alzheimer’s, it can be a frightening and confusing time. Birchwood Suites is here to help you navigate this difficult period in life. Our staff understands the intricacies of providing care for Alzheimer’s disease.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is a disease that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia.

In its early stages, it can be mild enough. A person with dementia may not notice any symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, it can show itself in various ways, such as:

• Severe memory loss
• A decline in language skills
• Personality changes
• Difficulty with simple tasks like paying bills or balancing a checkbook

In addition to affecting a person’s memory, thinking, and behavior, Alzheimer’s can cause medical complications such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses.

The cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown, but researchers believe that certain genes may increase the risk of developing the disease. Although no treatments can stop or reverse Alzheimer’s, medications can help manage some symptoms.

What to Do If Your Loved One Has Alzheimer’s Disease

If you suspect your loved one has Alzheimer’s, make an appointment with their primary care physician for a physical examination. This will include a neurological exam and blood tests. Your family doctor will also ask about the patient’s medical history, including medications they have been taking and any previous illnesses.

If the doctor thinks it likely or confirms that your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, they will refer them to a specialist in care for Alzheimer’s for additional blood tests or a CT scan of their brain. Other tests may include PET scans or MRIs to assess specific brain areas.

The specialist will also likely recommend that your loved one see a therapist for counseling as early as possible. This will prepare them (and you) for what lies ahead. Specialists may also suggest exploring the possibility of live-in care for Alzheimer’s disease at facilities such as Birchwood Suites, which encompasses treatment options like speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

What Alzheimer’s Care Do We Provide at Birchwood Suites?

Our community aims to help you and your loved ones deal with the effects of Alzheimer’s. In addition to providing 24-hour supervision and care for Alzheimer’s disease, we also offer:

• Personalized Care Plans
• Nutritional Support
• Medication Management
• Physical Therapy Services
• Respite Care
• Socialization Opportunities
• 24/7 Staff Coverage

Alzheimer’s and Loss of Memory Care that Counts

At Birchwood Suites, we understand that Alzheimer’s can be an overwhelming experience for all involved. We want to help you navigate the process of caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s in a way that allows you to focus on what matters most: your loved one and their quality of life.

Our staff has extensive training and experience in providing the highest level of care for Alzheimer’s patients. They will help you navigate the caregiving process and our facilities will make your and your loved one’s lives more manageable.

We know how hard caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be, and we want you to feel comfortable with your decision for your loved one. That’s why we offer one-on-one appointments with our resident administrators at no charge.

We were voted the “Best of Assisted Living in East Northport” Facility in 2019 by SeniorAdvisor and have won many more awards for our Alzheimer’s care and long-term care. Call 631-368-5252, visit our East Northport facility, or email us at admissions@birchwoodsuites.com today to schedule your appointment to explore care for Alzheimer’s disease at our facility. We’re here to help you through it.