Disability Assessment Flashcards
Abagail’s husband has highlighted some behavioural changes that he is finding concerning, what could be causing these behavioural changes?
The most likely cause of behavioural changes is the progression of Abigail’s Frontotemporal dementia
Identify strategies or interventions that could be implemented to address changes in Abagail’s condition to ensure that her nutrition, elimination oral hygiene and grooming are addressed and maintained
Nutrition - Assessment from speech pathologist and dietician. Implement modified utensils or robotic feeding machine, Food chart or fluid balance chart.
Elimination, oral hygiene, grooming - OT assessment and implementation of modified toothbrush/hairbrush, rails in the toilet, over-toilet, wiping aid, shower commode, aids for getting dressed i.e. shoe horn, button hook. Carer and husband to to assist when available.
What are strategies to assist management of challenging behaviours seen with Dementia?
Comforting Abigail, Distractions, sticking to a routine, making sure to stay calm when communicating with Abigail, Try to use simple short sentences
Abagail has been experiencing changes in her speech, in the near future she may not be able to communicate verbally at all. What adaptive or alternative communication techniques could you use to assist communication into the future?
Low Tech options - simple word books, picture books, gaze boards, writing notes
High Tech options - eye tracking devices, iPad’s with communication apps, voice banks
What is Presbyopia?
Stiffening of the lens which results in difficulty focusing on objects that are held close to the eye. Often age related
What is MND Progressive Bulbar Palsy?
This type of MND affects the neurons that are responsible for controlling the muscles responsible for speech and swallowing first. This results in slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and changes to the persons voice.
What is Frontotemporal Dementia?
This type of dementia affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain and results in damage to these areas. As a result, the person may experience changes in behaviour, personality changes, and trouble with language. Memory is not always affected.
What is Riluzole
A medication given to people with MND that suppresses glutamate activity.
How does glutamate effect people in MND
it is thought that high levels of glutamate is toxic to the neurons
What is glutamate?
Glutamate is a neurotransmitter
What forms can Riluzole come in?
Tablet, Liquid and film
What is dysarthria?
Weakness in speech muscles resulting in slow or slurred speech
What is the medical name for slow or slurred speech due to muscle weakness
Dysarthria
