Alzheimer’s disease is a common disease, especially among the elderly. It is fair to say that their daily lives are quite different from those of normal people. Therefore, measures will have to be taken according to the seriousness of the situation in which the person finds themself. In particular, a Specialized Alzheimer‘s Team or home care team can be called in to help the patient who is still in the mild stage to recover and cope with daily life. In fact, people who are ill can receive treatment at home with the help of a SAT.
THE OBJECTIVES OF A SPECIALISED ALZHEIMER’S TEAM
Alzheimer’s is a disease that disrupts the daily life of the patient but also of their loved ones, especially those who live with them. The Specialized Alzheimer’s Team will help to improve the condition of patients who are still at the early stage of the disease.
- Helping people get on with their lives
It is not always easy to live with an illness, especially when it has a major impact on daily life. To help patients stay independent, the specialized Alzheimer’s team will accost them by asking them to do exercises. This will help them to stimulate their memory abilities so that it doesn’t worsen to a critical stage.
- Helping patients to control themselves
Behavioral disturbance is one of the signs that a person has Alzheimer’s disease besides memory loss. It shows up as an occasional mood swings. It is also the job of the specialized Alzheimer team to make sure that the person with Alzheimer’s disease shows less of this sign by giving them occupational therapy.
- Helping and supporting those close to the patient
The existence of the specialized Alzheimer’s team makes life easier for the patient’s family. Indeed, it is not easy to manage a patient, especially when she has Alzheimer’s disease. The Specialized Alzheimer’s Team can replace you when you need to go shopping or work. In this case, an Alzheimer’s patient should not be left alone in the house, as they could do anything or injure themselves.
HOW TO BENEFIT FROM THE INTERVENTION OF A SPECIALIZED TEAM AT HOME
- Have a prescription or a medical prescription
Before being able to intervene, the patient must have a medical prescription that proves that he is affected by Alzheimer’s disease. The latter is issued either by a treating doctor or by a specialist who works in a private practice or a simple memory consultation.
- Who does the intervention?
Usually, a specialized Alzheimer’s team is made up of the following people:
- Psychomotricians,
- Occupational therapists,
- Gerontological care assistants.
It should be noted that these people have undergone professional training in order to be able to help patients cope with the disease. The team is supervised either by a nurse coordinator, a psychomotor therapist or an occupational therapist.
HOW DOES AN INTERVENTION AT HOME TAKE PLACE?
- Home assessment
First of all, an occupational therapist or psychomotor therapist comes to diagnose the patient’s ability to do things without help. Based on this, the examiner will set goals for the patient to achieve such as getting dressed, showering, preparing food … Then, the therapist will give a program to be followed by the patient to help them repeat their habits and find pleasure in what they undertake. Then, the care assistant in gerontology will take over. It is he who will follow up on the program set up by the first responders. At the end of the programme, the specialised Alzheimer’s team will give a report on the evolution of the patient’s condition, which he will communicate to the doctor.
- The duration of the specialized Alzheimer’s team’s intervention
The Specialized Alzheimer’s Team is doing an intervention for about three months. Sessions are spread over this period with a frequency of 12 to 15 sessions per year. It is possible to renew the prescription after one year.
- The cost of Specialized Alzheimer’s Team intervention
The Specialized Alzheimer’s Team is a team attached to the home nursing service. If you have a patient at home, you can consult the SSID directory of the portal to find a Specialized Alzheimer’s Team. And the cost of the intervention of an SAT at home is fully covered by Health Insurance.
Many SAT’s use our Stim’Art Scarlett tablet game programs during SAT sessions and recommend it to their patients after the intervention!
THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DIAGNOSIS IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease plays a crucial role in managing the condition and improving the quality of life for both patients and their families. Recognizing the symptoms early allows for timely intervention and support, which can significantly slow the progression of the disease.
- Access to Treatment: Early diagnosis enables patients to access appropriate treatments and therapies that can help manage symptoms effectively.
- Planning for the Future: Families can make informed decisions regarding care strategies and future planning when they understand the diagnosis early on.
- Support Services: Early identification allows families to connect with support services and resources that can provide assistance throughout the disease’s progression.
CREATING A SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS
Creating a supportive home environment is essential for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. A well-structured and safe space can help patients maintain their independence and reduce anxiety.
- Declutter the Living Space: Remove unnecessary items to create a more navigable environment.
- Use Clear Labels: Label drawers, rooms, and items to help patients locate them easily.
- Establish a Routine: Consistent daily routines can provide comfort and predictability for patients.
- Implement Safety Measures: Install safety features such as grab bars and non-slip mats to prevent accidents.
THE ROLE OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS IN ALZHEIMER’S CARE
Family caregivers play a vital role in the care of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Their support can significantly impact the patient’s well-being and quality of life.
- Emotional Support: Family members provide essential emotional support, helping patients cope with the challenges of the disease.
- Daily Assistance: Caregivers assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation.
- Monitoring Health: Family caregivers can observe changes in the patient’s condition and communicate with healthcare providers about their needs.
- Education and Training: Caregivers should seek education on Alzheimer’s disease to understand the condition and learn effective caregiving techniques.
ENGAGING ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS THROUGH ACTIVITIES
Engaging Alzheimer’s patients in meaningful activities can enhance their cognitive function and emotional well-being. Tailored activities can stimulate memory and provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Memory Games: Activities such as card matching or recalling past events can help stimulate cognitive function.
- Art and Craft Projects: Creative activities allow patients to express themselves and can be therapeutic.
- Physical Exercise: Gentle exercises, such as walking or stretching, can improve physical health and mood.
- Music Therapy: Listening to music or participating in sing-alongs can evoke memories and improve emotional connections.
