UNDERSTANDING DEMENTIA & ALZHEIMER'S
This general term refers to a serious loss of mental abilities such as thinking, remembering, reasoning, and communicating.
dementia
This is the ability to think logically and clearly.
cognition
NAs should always approach from this direction and not startle the resident.
the front
A resident who is excited, restless, or troubled is a____________.
agitated
When a resident believes things that are not true, it's called having ___________.
delusions
This therapy means letting residents believe they live in the past or in imaginary circumstances, making no attempt to reorient them.
validation therapy
What are the three stages of Alzheimer's disease?
mild, moderate, and severe
Name two normal signs of aging.
not remembering recent events
slower reaction time
difficulty finding or using the right words
sleeping less
Why should we use a lower tone of voice when talking to residents with Alzheimer's?
It can be easier to understand.
It is calming.
This behavior occurs when a person with AD gets restless and agitated in the late afternoon, evening, or night.
sundowning
People who become withdrawn, isolated, lack energy, and stop eating or doing things they used to enjoy may be experiencing d__________.
depression
This therapy involves encouraging residents to remember and talk about the past, helping them remember pleasant times.
reminiscence therapy
What is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly?
Alzheimer's disease
This is a normal inability to think clearly and logically. It happens to everyone sometimes.
confusion
This term describes when a person with AD repeats words, phrases, questions, or actions over and over.
perseveration
When a person with AD overreacts to something, it is called this type of reaction.
catastrophic reaction
This behavior involves collecting things.
hoarding
This therapy uses activities that the resident enjoys to keep them busy.
activity therapy
Name one non-Alzheimer's cause of dementia.
Huntington's disease
vascular dementia
Parkinson's disease
Lewy body dementia
This is a state of severe confusion that occurs suddenly and is usually temporary.
dellerium
How long should an NA observe a resident's normal bathroom habits before establishing a bathroom routine?
2-3 days
What are two things the NA can do if a resident is using violent behavior.
block blows
call for help
stay calm
remove triggers
stay out of the way, etc.
This behavior involves going through or sorting through bags, closets, or drawers.
rummaging
This type of therapy uses music to connect with, distract, and entertain residents.
music therapy
On average, how long does someone live after an Alzheimer's diagnosis?
4-8 years
Name two things that can cause confusion in the elderly.
urinary tract infection
low blood sugar
dehydration
medications
loss of sleep, etc.
True or false
Routines can be helpful for a dementia patient.
True
Both of these Alzheimer's signs involve walking. (two answers)
pacing
wandering
Name two things NAs can do if a resident hoards or rummages.
label all personal belongings
place a label/symbol/object on resident's door
prepare family so they are not upset
ask family to tell staff if they notice unfamiliar items
return items to proper place
provide a rummage drawer with safe items
True or false
Nursing assistants can take care of themselves by not taking things personally.
True