The Condition of Alzheimer's Disease

Question 1

Distinct behaviors in Alzheimer’s patients

Answer 1

Behaviors may be psychomotor (pacing, wandering, repeatedly crying out, etc.); verbal (belligerence, nastiness towards others, repetitiveness) and/or physical (combativeness, inappropriate touching). Careworkers need to be aware of these types of behaviors which can be expected from their clients.

Question 2

Key to reducing behavioral disturbances is to identify triggers which include

Answer 2

These include: pain; fatigue; acute illness; sensory deficits; hallucinations and/or delusions

Question 3

Depression In Alzheimer’s patients

Answer 3

Alzheimer’s patients often experience a strong sense of depression. This may be reflected as irritability, fearfulness, tearfulness, hopelessness, somatic complaints (i.e. feeling ill physically), lack of energy/interest, changes in appetite.

Question 4

Sleep deprivation in Alzheimer’s patients

Answer 4

Sleep disturbance occurs in 50% of Alzheimer’s patients living in a community setting

Patients may have trouble falling or staying asleep, or with resuming sleep. They may wander, may reverse night and day, appear more confused and/or may have exacerbation of anxiety, physical or verbal outbursts.

Question 5

How care givers should handle sleep disturbance

Answer 5

It is one of the most disturbing behaviors for caregivers and can cause exhaustion and despair in caregivers.

Alzheimer’s patients can also experience delirium - a sudden increase in mental confusion, accompanied by hallucinations. Alzheimer’s patients often need medication to help them sleep.