HS 120 Alzheimer s Disease: Coping and Caring

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Presents information about Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias, exploring the disease process including the stages of Alzheimer’s and associated behaviors. Focuses on the Best Friends approach to care-giving; addressing issues which families, caregivers, and case managers must attend to. Promotes the individual’s adaptation and addressing issues of self-esteem and fear.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe physical changes in the brain of an individual with Alzheimer’s disease.
Differentiate between the stages of symptom progression and describe appropriate approaches for each stage.
Identify problems related to medical, behavior and mood, with corresponding approaches and interventions.
Describe healthy adaptation, including self-esteem and fears in affected individuals.
Describe the impact of caregiving and the importance of developing self-care plans.
Identify community resources available to families and caregivers including living and care alternatives.
Discuss legal and financial planning strategies for families caring for an individual with Alzheimer’s disease.

Content Outline

Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
Symptom Progression
- Treatment and management
Medical, Behavioral, and Mood Problems
Health Adaptation
- Enhancing self-esteem
- Addressing fears
Constructing Meaningful Activity
Best Friends Approach to Care
Challenges of Providing Care
Personal Impact of Caregiving and Community Resources
- Families
- Caregivers
Accessing Outside Help and Special Arrangements
Legal Issues and Financial Planning