Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders: Medical Care (REL-SRC-0-ADRDMC)

Course overview

This course addresses the medical needs of the person with Alzheimer’s disease using a person-centered approach. It presents medications commonly prescribed and their side effects, including the effects of using antipsychotic medications for behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. It identifies medical conditions and symptoms that frequently occur in those with Alzheimer’s disease, such as sleep disorders, falls, and pneumonia and skin breakdown related to immobility, and shows their impact. The detection and prevention of malnutrition and dehydration are discussed, as well as effective strategies for managing swallowing difficulties, constipation, and urinary tract infection. Finally, end of life and hospice care are examined. While this course specifically talks about Alzheimer’s disease, you can use the same strategies in persons with other types of dementia, as well. Additionally, you should always remember that the fluctuating nature of Alzheimer’s disease may require frequent adjustments to the plan of care to meet the person’s needs at any given time.