Alzheimer’s – key questions answered.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and irreversible brain disorder that slowly causes impairments in both memory and cognitive function. Unfortunately, no cure is currently available.

In Alzheimer’s disease, damage to the brain begins years before symptoms appear. Abnormal protein deposits form plaques and tangles in the brain. Connections between nerve cells (neurons) are lost. It’s these neurons that transmit messages between different parts of the brain, and from the brain to muscles and organs in the body.

What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s?

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can overlap, but there can be some differences. Both conditions cause a decline in the ability to think and lead to impairments in memory and communication.

Key symptoms of Alzheimer’s include:

difficulty remembering recent events or conversations
apathy
depression
impaired judgment
disorientation
confusion
behavioural changes
difficulty speaking, swallowing and walking (in the advanced stages of the disease).

When is the best time for someone living with Alzheimer’s transition to a care home?

Those living with Alzheimer’s may live a full and well supported life at home until the end of their life, however this is dependent on the support network from family and other professional services.

How are those living with Alzheimer’s cared for at Cramond Residence?

We know that it can be at times challenging caring for loved one living with Alzheimer’s. Cramond Residence provides care tailored to the individual needs of those living with Alzheimer’s, which promotes person centred care and independence. We take great time and care to learn about our residents and their past lives so that future goals and activities can be appropriately planned.

We receive the reassuring support of our visiting General Practitioners twice weekly to the residence. We also have a physiotherapy room where our physiotherapist visits on a regular weekly basis.

You promote small group living at Cramond Residence, what is this?

Cramond Residence provides a homely and comfortable environment in all its 9 individual houses which contain 8 or 9 private bedrooms with en suites. Each house also has its own private lounge and dining room so residents can relax at their leisure.

Our small group living approach helps to facilitate familiarity to those living within their houses. For someone living with Alzheimer’s this helps support orientation and as the environment is quieter and calmer this promotes a more relaxing atmosphere

What creative activities and physical therapies do you offer at Cramond Residence to help those living with Alzheimer’s?

Our Lifestyle team tailor the activities delivered within Cramond to the individual needs and passions of our residents. We offer variety and creativity, such as art and craft sessions, holistic massage therapy, music and dance, garden visits and topical discussion groups, all of which are tailored to the individuals interests and capabilities. We also enjoy regular visits from the hairdresser, our residents always look forward to a bit of pampering!

What reassurance can you give people who are thinking about transitioning a loved one living with Alzheimer’s from their own home into Cramond Residence?

We know that making the decision to transition a loved one into care can be an emotional and stressful time for all, we try and make this transition as easy as possible. Our team is on hand to answer any questions or queries you may have and will help guide you every step of the way.

Cramond Residence believe in providing the best possible standard of care. Establishing relationships with our residents families and friends help to build confidence and trust while caring for their loved one.

To find out more about how Cramond Residence can provide the best possible care to you or your loved one, contact: Christian Daraio. Tel: 0131 336 1064; e-mail: christian@cramondresidence.co.uk