This paper discusses the devastating physical and emotional effects that Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type (Alzheimer's disease) has on the patient and their family. It explores the current ways people affected by this illness are treated by the medical community, and how necessary information is not readily disseminated by the doctors, who are the initial contacts. It examines the coping skills and support systems used by family caregivers, and looks at what is involved in obtaining care from facilities outside of the home. Finally, suggestions are proposed to make improvements to the current systems.
This subject is important because a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease affects those involved on several levels; physical, emotional/psychological, social, spiritual, and financial. The incidence of Alzheimer's disease has increased due to the fact that people are living longer. Medical technology has extended the human life span, and with that comes a responsibility to the patients and their families, to provide a supportive environment to those afflicted with this disease. The majority of medical personnel have not yet been trained in developing empathetic communication, listening and dissemination of information skills, necessary to assist the patients and their families in dealing with this devastating disease (Bellaver, 1999). Improving quality of life for all involved is imperative. By having an understanding of the shortcomings of the current system, it is possible to create a system that functions more effectively.
The ability of physicians to recognize the difference between normal aging and a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is important so that the patient can receive appropriate medical intervention. "Symptom control, rather than disease reversal is a realistic goal in dementia care because currently available therapies will not cure it or reverse it" (Bellaver, 1999). Normal aging is described by Fuller a...