What can be an Alzheimer’s Disease Emergency?
Older people, especially those with Alzheimer’s Disease, can fall sick very quickly. They may also show warning signs pointing to another health issue. They may also undergo acute confusional states because of which they may have a risk of falling, which can risk them with injury. They may also experience agitation or confusion. Such instances may call for emergency help.
How can professionals help in an Alzheimer’s emergency?
Medical professionals can help diagnose any health conditions or help heal any injury that a patient with Alzheimer’s has gone through. They may prescribe medications to help the patient manage their emotional and behavioural symptoms. Physiotherapists can help the patient with movement and balance, and prevent falls.
What can family members do in the case of an Alzheimer’s emergency?
You can rush the patient to the Emergency Department of the nearest hospital. Inform the hospital staff of all the medical conditions, past history of and current medications, any allergies, as well as the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s that the patient has. Have a friend or family stay with the patient during the hospital visit.
How does a rehabilitation setting help handle Alzheimer’s emergency?
A patient with Alzheimer’s Disease has access to 24*7 monitoring and supervision by caretakers in a rehab as well as regular appointments with medical and mental health professionals that helps them manage their symptoms and learn to psychologically and emotionally cope with their disease. A physiotherapist can help the patient enhance their motor skills which promotes independence. Thus, constant support of professionals helps prevent emergency situations, as well as allows immediate professional help to be accessed in case of an emergency.
