Memory Care near Rapid City, SD

Why choose Alzheimer’s care in Rapid City, SD? Rapid City is a regional hub for medical services. The area has several hospitals, clinics, and private facilities that cater to Alzheimer's patients. The area also has plenty of activities to keep patients attentive and active before they enter the disease's late stages. Popular attractions include Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the Black Hills.

Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

Experts estimate that 5.2 million Americans live with Alzheimer's disease. As Baby Boomers get older, more of them will likely show signs of dementia, Alzheimer's, and related health conditions. This makes it important for the elderly and their families to learn more about Alzheimer's and treatment options that can improve a patient's quality of life.

Patients typically exhibit different symptoms of Alzheimer's depending on how far the disease has progressed. Unfortunately, there isn't a cure for Alzheimer's disease. The best families and medical professionals can do today is help control symptoms and make life more comfortable for patients.

Alzheimer's specialists break the disease into seven stages. At the first stage, patients show no signs of impairment. Most people experience memory lapses during the second stage, but they do not show signs of dementia.

Serious symptoms of Alzheimer's usually appear by stage five, which is defined by a moderately severe cognitive decline that can include confusion, difficulty performing simple arithmetic, and difficulty recalling basic information such as one's address and birthday.

Severe cognitive decline becomes apparent during stage six. Patients at this stage often have difficulty performing daily tasks, such as using the bathroom. They may show significant personality changes, such as becoming compulsive or violent.

During the final stage of Alzheimer's, patients have no awareness of their surroundings. They lack control of their movements and may lose their ability to speak. Patients at this stage require significant help, usually from trained professionals who understand the challenges they face.

Types of Treatment Facilities for Alzheimer's Patients

Alzheimer's patients can often live independently during the early stages of the disease. Once they cannot perform essential tasks, though, they require help from family and medical professionals. Patients and their families have several care options.

Families who choose to care for their elderly relatives may need breaks to care for themselves and relax. Respite care meets this need. Families hire someone to come to the patient's home to clean, cook, and make sure they stay safe.

Family members who work during the day may need to enroll Alzheimer's patients in adult day care programs. Many of these programs provide services that help patients retain their cognitive abilities for as long as possible. They also perform necessary tasks such as feeding and cleaning up after the patient.

Residential care meets the needs of patients in advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease. These facilities provide health care services around the clock. They also help people living with Alzheimer's function as well as possible. Many residential care facilities offer hospice services that make the end of life more comfortable for Alzheimer's patients.