Activities for End Stage Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease is an incurable, fatal disease. End stage Alzheimer's patients are usually immobile, cannot communicate, and are dependent on a caregiver. It is important to make the patient as comfortable as possible.
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Hospice Care
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According to Psychiatric Services, "current federal Medicare regulations require that a patient have a prognosis of less than six months of life in order to be eligible for hospice benefits...it can be challenging and controversial to apply these guidelines to the end stage of Alzheimer's disease."
Signs of End Stage
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According to Psychiatric Services,"their ability to recognize once familiar people is significantly diminished. These patients are mostly bedridden. Multiple and painful joint contractures often develop. Pneumonia, urinary tract infection, dehydration, malnutrition, and bedsores are commonly listed as causes of death."
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Pain Control
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Pain management is an issue that is frequently mismanaged. Due to the patient's inability to comprehend and interact the pain, it is often undetected. Acetaminophen may be used, however, there is a risk of hepatotoxicty with chronic use.
Feeding
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According to Psychiatric Services, "Individuals in this stage may simply forget how to eat, or a loss of brain cells may cause impairment of the swallowing mechanisms. Some patients with end-stage Alzheimer's disease are apathetic and have no interest in eating at all. Many patients in this stage may need assistance with much cueing or total feeding. Choking can be prevented by avoiding thin liquids, giving boluses of food with sufficient moisture, and keeping patients in a sitting position."
Warning
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It is important to discuss a family member's final wishes long before end-stage. Also, check with the patient's doctor before starting any pain management or feeding technique.
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