NURSE OR NURSE PRACTITIONER<\/p>\n
While the doctor may handle most of the medical matters, a nurse can provide invaluable support for the day-to-day health concerns. So while it’s unlikely that you’ll actually choose a nurse, you do want to select a physician whose nursing staff meets your personal needs. The nurse should also be well versed in the care of Alzheimer’s patients, communicate well with you and your loved ones, and treat you with courtesy and respect.<\/p>\n
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PHARMACIST<\/p>\n
Getting to know the pharmacist is a good precaution for anyone, but is especially important for someone with a chronic illness such as Alzheimer’s. The pharmacist can be on the lookout for dangerous interactions between different drugs and also serve as a source of information about how prescription medications might interact with over-the-counter remedies.<\/p>\n
SOCIAL WORKER<\/p>\n
Some people who have Alzheimer’s may need the services of a social worker. Think of the social worker as a referral source, a person well-versed in the services of a community, who can point you to different family service agencies, counseling services, or support groups. Social workers are also trained to provide counseling themselves and can assist you and your family in making decisions.<\/p>\n
GETTING THE HELP YOU NEED<\/p>\n
It isn’t always easy to find healthcare professionals you like and trust, and sometimes, it may take a while before you find someone who makes you feel comfortable. You can launch your search by asking for referrals, calling the local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, or contacting an area hospital.<\/p>\n
In reality, Alzheimer’s is a difficult disease to treat. The condition has no cure, and there are few medications that can slow its progression. Instead, patients and their families can simply hope for the best\u2014that the physician they choose will work hard to improve the quality of their lives now and as the disease progresses.<\/p>\n
But as the numbers of people who have Alzheimer\u2019s Disease increases, the numbers of doctors willing to work with diese patients is growing, too. Ideally, these doctors will work well with the family members of the person with Alzheimer’s and also have the technical competence to help the patient pinpoint any physical problems he might be having. They should also be well versed in what the community has to offer to the patient. In addition, they should be able to work well with the caregivers, and be able to help them identify support groups, adult daycare services, and home health support that the person with Alzheimer\u2019s Disease may need down the road.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"