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Improving Outcomes for Alzheimer's Patients in Long Term Care

alzheimers in ltcImproving Outcomes for an Aging Population: Alzheimer's Treatment in Long Term Care-Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia and is estimated to affect 5 million individuals in the United States. The average course of disease in these patients is about 8-10 years from diagnosis until death. Of all individuals over age 65 years, an estimated 6-8% have AD or another form of dementia and this rate exceeds 30% at age 85 years and older. Over the coming decades, the baby boom population is projected to add 10 million people to these numbers. In 2050, the incidence of AD is expected to approach nearly one million people per year, with a total estimated prevalence of 11-16 million people. AD and other dementias result from the death or malfunction of neurons in the brain. Cognitive and behavioral impairments result when neurons die or malfunction. Symptoms of AD include: a gradual decline in memory; new problems with words—either with speaking or writing; decreased or poor judgment; withdrawal from work or social activities; difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, work, or at leisure; confusion with time or place; trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships; changes in mood or personality; challenges in planning or solving problems. AD is now seen as a spectrum disease with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) as the first clinically observable set of symptoms. Ultimately, AD is fatal.
Discuss assessment tools for the diagnosis of residents with AD in the LTC setting.
Analyze clinical guidelines for management of AD in the context of recent clinical trials and utilization of available therapeutic options.
Differentiate patients with AD from those with other types of dementia or psychiatric disorders.
1.0 Free AANP CEUs for Nurse Practitioners
Expires 4/30/14
Cosponsored by Indiana University School of Medicine and The Academy for Continued Healthcare Learning & Supported by an educational grant from Pfizer