I am sure by now that we have all heard the word that begins with an “A” and can strike fear in all our hearts and mind’s... Alzheimer’s. (I personally believe this should be one of the screening tests to see if you can spell the disease.)

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease which worsens over time. It is the most common form of dementia in the US. We see problems with short term memory, activities of daily living, and behavior. Those of you reading my column are at the front of recognizing this disease. I would like to share with you two tips. The first tip is considered a diagnostic test but I consider it a great point to get your resident to see their physician.

First, draw a circle on a piece of paper. Then ask your resident to fill in the numbers on a clock. The last step is to ask them to place the “clock’s hands” on the 2 and 10 position. If your resident can not do this, this should alert you. {quotes align=right} Have the resident see their medical provider. {/quotes align=right} This is not the “end all” screening test. If your resident can do this but “something does not seem right to you” call the medical provider.

The second tip is for those that already have residents that are being treated. Studies have shown that Aricept and Namenda when given together have better outcomes then given individually. The two medications work together to slow the memory decline.
Ask the medical providers if your residents need to be on both, Aricept and Namenda. They will be glad to see that you are staying on top of new treatments.