Introduction
Alzheimer’s disease is a complex condition for those who have it, as well as caregivers, family members, and loved ones. Due to their knowledge of theory and practical experience, generalist practitioners can help caregivers and patients with Alzheimer’s in many ways. To achieve good results, they must review all systems in the patient’s daily life and apply gerontological skills. Working with seniors, especially with a focus on Alzheimer’s disease, is a challenging professional choice as it requires much patience, knowledge, and empathy. Nonetheless, it is also interesting to practitioners and helpful to the often underrepresented older adult population.
Impact of the Disorder on Family Members
Alzheimer’s patients can live with family members who take care of them or in centers that offer professional support. In the first case, the assistance of a generalist practitioner can be invaluable, as this professional offers people without healthcare expertise the best approaches to care. In the video “Alzheimer and Dementia: Caring for the Caregiver,” the presented scenario shows a couple caring for the woman’s mother-in-law (Films Media Group, 2002).
Here, the generalist practitioner talks to both caregivers to establish their needs and develop strategies for resolving any issues. For example, the professional can identify unusual behavior or changes in the Alzheimer’s patient’s health. Furthermore, the professional may recommend specific resources, such as community centers, activities, and programs for the family.
Life Changes Brought by the Disease
Biological
Alzheimer’s disease affects different aspects of life and can result in biological, social, and other changes. Physiological symptoms may include difficulty moving or caring for oneself—decreased mobility can also increase the risk of physical injury (Morelli et al., 2019). Some coping strategies may include hiring professional help and changing surroundings to prevent falls, incontinence, and other physical challenges.
For instance, removing the clutter from the home and adding anti-slip materials in the bathroom can lower the risk of injury. Reminding Alzheimer’s patients to drink water, use the bathroom, eat, take their medication, change clothes, and perform other daily tasks can help address their physiological needs. For caregivers, biological issues are often related to fatigue, so professional help and assistance from other family members are the primary strategies that can help.
Sociopsychological
Social and psychological challenges are intertwined, as caregivers and patients often live together. For a person with Alzheimer’s, it may be challenging to socialize, which contributes to feelings of loneliness. Participating in community programs and adult day care provides them with a community of people in a similar age group. At the same time, the primary psychological and social challenge for caretakers is emotional exhaustion – Alzheimer’s patients often have mood swings, aggressive behavior, and fear that turns into negative emotions (Films Media Group, 2002). To address this issue, caregivers must make time for themselves, take turns in their duties, communicate with their loved ones, and seek therapy if necessary.
Cultural and Religious
The issues related to one’s culture and religion vary significantly for each person. Cultural challenges can be overcome by attending local events and engaging in hobbies that are connected to one’s heritage. Caregivers should also consider their needs and stay in contact with their community, if possible. Finally, spiritual development can be maintained if the patient continues attending church or is provided with resources to maintain their faith rituals (Dale & Smith, 2013). Caregivers should also have a space to reflect, attend to their spiritual needs, and discuss their faith and personal growth with their loved ones.
Professional Skills Needed for Work with Patients
As a beginner in gerontology, the generalist practitioner must focus on developing the necessary skills to effectively care for older adults. Based on the Geriatric Social Work Competency Scale II, I aim to acquire a foundational understanding of biases and values related to aging (Morelli et al., 2019). Professionals must understand the primary challenges that older adults face in healthcare and everyday life. I would also work on refining my ethical principles and understanding of diversity among people to develop individualized approaches for each person. Some practical skills that require development are interviewing, geriatric assessment, communication, case management, and education.
Personal Reflection
The video about Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers has allowed me to reflect upon the many challenges that both groups experience. I learned about the struggles people face when caring for their relatives and the emotional labor that often goes unnoticed. I understand that it is a complex field, but I am interested in working with seniors and their caregivers. This area offers an opportunity to help multiple generations of people by addressing their problems and making it easier for them to care for one another. I would also like to support caregivers and advocate for their needs, while enhancing the quality of life for patients.
Conclusion
To conclude, Alzheimer’s disease significantly changes people’s lives, including the whole community surrounding the person who has it. People with Alzheimer’s go through many changes, and it may be difficult for them and their families to adjust. Generalist practitioners can provide support and expertise to make this transition a positive one.
Patients can improve their lives by staying connected to society and engaging in various activities. Caregivers can attend to their own needs by prioritizing self-care and acknowledging their emotional and physical challenges. To provide effective support, generalist practitioners should develop strong communication and assessment skills and reflect on their biases, diversity, and community values.
References
Dale, O., & Smith, R. (2013). Human behavior and the social environment (7th ed.). Pearson Education.
Films Media Group. (2002). Alzheimer and dementia: Caring for the caregiver [Video]. Films On Demand. Web.
Morelli, N., Barello, S., Mayan, M., & Graffigna, G. (2019). Supporting family caregiver engagement in the care of old persons living in hard to reach communities: A scoping review. Health & Social Care in the Community, 27(6), 1363-1374. Web.