Dementia is a general term that describes a group of symptoms such as loss of memory, judgment, language, complex motor skills, and other intellectual functions caused by the permanent damage or death of the brain's nerve cells.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive, degenerative brain disease. It affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia in persons over the age of 65. It represents about 60% of all dementia. Care for such individuals extends from behavioral issues, function ability issues, emotional issues, and logical reasoning. Typical symptoms include: trouble finding words, struggling to complete familiar actions, confusion about time, place, or people, onset of new depression or irritability, personality changes or seeing and hearing things.
Unfortunately, there are no known cures for Alzheimer's or most forms of dementia. However there are many innovative technologies and therapies currently available to greatly decrease the anxieties and difficulties related to dealing with the diseases. Some facilities specialize in the care of those inflicted with the diseases and have specially trained employees to help better the life's of those affected and their family members.
Alzheimer's care can come in many forms and services. The most common form is a person living in a special facility that is designed around the unique care of the residents. Alternatives to living full time in a facility do exist including in-home care, day-care services for adults, respite (overnight) stays, and companion type services. Some facilities have respite stays and day-care services available.
Below you will find a resource guide full of what we feel are the best facilities in the treasure valley for helping with the care of Alzheimer's Disease and dementia.
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