When talking about Alzheimer's disease, the cause or origin that causes it is still unknown. Research has been conducted on its etiology for a long time, which usually focus on factors such as exogenous toxins, genetic immunology or viral agents.

However, none of the results are conclusive and the cause is likely to be multifunctional. Since there is still no cure available, there is currently a great need for long-term care as well as the solution of the problems and symptoms associated closely with the disease. This disease affects adults of all socioeconomic strata and races, is the fourth cause of death in the United States, representing an annual mortality of about 120 thousand people.

Care and proper management of Alzheimer's patients

During the illness, proper care and management must be for the patient as well as the family members. This attention may include the help of professionals from different disciplines in cooperation with self-help groups.

There are also a variety of service programs created to help people suffering from this disease such as home care, family groups, patient groups and nursing homes.

The importance of joining support groups

There are plenty of reasons to join support groups for Alzheimer's disease. Some people take them into account, when one of the members of their family is diagnosed with the disease and want to know more about it; others come together when they are in crisis, especially when making important decisions, such as taking financial responsibility and obtaining external help; others who come together, seek concrete help on how to handle specific problems. Joining the support groups also helps decrease the feeling of loneliness and discomfort.

In most cases, professionals are dedicated to providing training to family members in caring for the sick.

There are also groups specially created to help the children of people suffering from Alzheimer's disease, who train the caregivers, usually the spouses, in the care of the sick person.

Groups at home

These are small self-help groups formed by people interested in meeting with other individuals with similar problems, without being affiliated with any organization. The groups can be four or five people who meet regularly informally in their homes and depend on the generosity of the people.

Established groups

These are professionally managed groups that can have a combination of self-help groups and a group of sponsored agencies. In addition, there are some agencies that offer only your space, while others offer professional supervision.

These support groups are usually connected to nursing homes, mental health facilities, and community agencies.

Addressing Alzheimer's disease is a very difficult challenge, but if taken with love and the help of support groups, the emotional burden can be minimized.


Video Medicine: Caregiver Training: Refusal to Bathe | UCLA Alzheimer's and Dementia Care (March 2024).