Dementia produces a multitude of stressors on the individual as well as for those who care for them. In a 2010 report from the Family Caregiver Alliance, more than 65% of care services take place in the home environment among family and friends. Another 30% receive outside care providers in the home. Yet 50% of those with long-term care needs live in care facilities, with another 7% institutionalized in a government program. The home environment is typically the preferred method, however there are options out there for those who need help managing behaviors, providing care, or just a few hours of respite during the day.
Drug Therapy
The University of California-San Francisco suggests that drug therapy is often a “necessary evil” in the treatment of dementia. In the milder stages, drugs can slow the progression of the disease for a few years. Doctors may prescribe cholinesterase inhibitors (i.e. Aricept, Exelon, Reminyl) or a N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) antagonist (i.e. Namenda) for this purpose. In more advanced states, behavioral problems may endanger the individual and those that provide their care. For the purpose of alleviating psychosis and reducing ruminations, doctors may prescribe psychopharmacological drugs. The University of Kansas recommends using neuroleptics (i.e. Haldol) for extremely aggressive or violent behaviors, and atypical antipsychotics (i.e. Risperdal), anxiolytics (i.e. Wellbutrin), or antidepressants and mood-stabilizing drugs (i.e. Depakote) for agitation, anxiety, depression or ruminating thoughts.
Long-Term Care
Long-term care is housing provided outside of the home environment and generally in a skilled nursing facility. Harvard Medical School defines the role of long-term care as a non-acute type, geared for extended periods and tailored to a lower level of technological intervention. In this scenario, the individual with dementia remains unlikely to improve as the disease progresses and ultimately the main objective of this form of treatment includes preserving optimal functioning and quality of life for that individual. The level of treatment received in long-term care often depends on the quality of the facility but most will include a level of physical activity, behavioral management and socialization. Some insurances will cover the expenses to a certain extent, yet there are still considerable costs involved for this type of care and housing service.
Adult Day Care
Adult day care settings are designed with respite (for the care provider) and partial-treatment for the individual. Physical activities, stimulating atmosphere, outings in the community and therapeutic socialization is generally included in a quality program. The Alzheimer’s Association posits that they are programs outside of the home environment that take place during regular business hours (7 am to 6 pm) geared to provide a comfortable and safe environment with planned activities. This is a fee-for-service program and some insurances will cover the essential costs involved.
About this Author
Robin Wood-Moen holds a M.Sc. in psychology and is currently working on a Ph.D. in health psychology from Walden University. She is an academic researcher and professional writer in health psychology, psychoneuroimmunology, religion/spirituality, bereavement, death/dying, meaning-making processes, and CAM therapies.
