Alzheimer Awareness And What Medical Equipment Can Help Patients To Heal At Home

 Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes the brain to shrink and brain cells to die. There are a number of risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease, including age, family history, and genetics. However, there are also lifestyle factors that may contribute to the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

Alzheimer’s disease affects the parts of the brain that are responsible for learning, memory, and thinking. As the disease progresses, symptoms worsen. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, a person may experience mild forgetfulness, such as forgetting names or appointments. As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more severe, such as difficulty speaking, confusion, and personality changes.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients. These treatments can include medications, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, as well as therapy and support groups.

There is a variety of medical equipment that can help Alzheimer’s patients live safely and comfortably at home. Here are a few examples:

Medication Dispensers:

Medication dispensers can help Alzheimer’s patients take their medication on time and in the correct dosage. This is important because many Alzheimer’s medications need to be taken consistently to be effective. Medication dispensers can be programmed to dispense medication at specific times of day, and some can even alert caregivers if a dose is missed.

Bathroom Safety Equipment:

Grab bars and shower chairs can help prevent falls in the bathroom, which is a common problem for Alzheimer’s patients. Falls can be serious for people with Alzheimer’s, as they can lead to broken bones and other injuries. Bathroom safety equipment can also include non-slip mats for the bathtub or shower floor, and raised toilet seats that can make it easier for patients to get on and off the toilet.

Grab Bars:

Installed securely on the wall near the toilet, bathtub, and shower.

Provide a stable surface for individuals to grip while entering, exiting, maneuvering, or transferring weight in the bathroom.

Available in various lengths, finishes, and even curved designs for additional support points.

Shower Chairs and Bath Benches:

Offer a stable seating option for showering or bathing, reducing the risk of falls on wet surfaces.

Look for chairs with slip-resistant rubber feet or legs for added stability.

Some shower chairs come with armrests and backrests for further support while getting in and out.

Non-Slip Mats:

Placed on the bathtub or shower floor to improve traction and reduce the risk of slipping.

Look for mats with a textured surface and secure suction cups on the underside to prevent them from shifting.

Raised Toilet Seats:

Elevate the toilet seat height, making it easier for individuals to sit down and stand up, especially those with limited mobility or weakness in the legs.

Available in various heights to accommodate individual needs.

Some raised toilet seats come with grab bars attached for additional support.

Additional Considerations:

Shower Head On A Hose: Allows for adjusting the spray direction for easier bathing while seated.

Hand-Held Shower Wand: Provides more control and flexibility while showering, especially for those with limited reach or coordination.

Bath Mats: Placed outside the bathtub or shower to absorb water and prevent slips after showering.

Bathroom Faucet Lever Handles: Easier to operate than traditional knob handles, especially for those with limited hand strength or dexterity.

Shower Doors: Opt for clear shower doors to provide visibility and reduce feelings of enclosure that can be disorienting for some Alzheimer’s patients.

Medical alert systems:

Medical alert systems can allow Alzheimer’s patients to call for help in case of an emergency. This can be a lifesaver for patients who live alone or who are at risk of falling or wandering. Medical alert systems typically consist of a wearable button that the patient can press to call for help and a base station that connects to a monitoring center. When the patient presses the button, the monitoring center will dispatch help to the patient’s home.

Home Therapy Equipment:

This can include exercise bands, balance balls, and other tools used to help patients regain strength, mobility, and flexibility after an injury or surgery.  Exercise bands: Exercise bands come in a variety of resistances, from very light to very heavy. They can be used to strengthen muscles throughout the body, and can also be used to improve balance and coordination.  Foam rollers: Foam rollers are self-massage tools that can be used to improve muscle soreness and tightness. They can also be used to improve flexibility and range of motion.  TheraPutty: TheraPutty is a hand therapy putty that comes in a variety of resistances. It can be used to strengthen the muscles in the hands and forearms, and can also be used to improve grip strength.  TheraPutty: TheraPutty is a hand therapy putty that comes in a variety of resistances. It can be used to strengthen the muscles in the hands and forearms, and can also be used to improve grip strength.

Additional Tips

In addition to medical equipment, there are a number of other things that can be done to help Alzheimer’s patients live safely and comfortably at home. Here are a few tips:

Create a safe and familiar environment. This may include removing clutter from the home, keeping furniture in familiar places, and labeling cabinets and doors.

Establish a routine. A routine can help Alzheimer’s patients feel more secure and less confused.

Provide activities and stimulation. Activities that keep Alzheimer’s patients mentally and physically stimulated can help to slow the progression of the disease.

Be patient and understanding. Alzheimer’s disease is a difficult disease for both patients and caregivers. It is important to be patient and understanding with the person you are caring for.

By working together, caregivers, medical professionals, and the community can help Alzheimer’s patients live safely and comfortably at home. To access home medical equipment, consult with your healthcare provider and discuss your treatment needs. They can determine if home medical equipment is appropriate and provide a script. Telehealth is another option to consider for virtual session.

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