How can you lower the chances of someone with Alzheimer's disease getting sick?
ANSWER
People in the later stages of Alzheimer’s are more likely to get infections, including bladder infections, flu, and pneumonia. To lower your loved one’s chances of getting sick:
- Talk to his doctor about getting a flu shot each year.
- A one-time pneumonia shot after age 65 is also a good idea.
- Watch for sudden changes in symptoms or behaviors, or a fever. These can point to an infection.
From: When Alzheimer's Affects More than Memory WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Neil Lava on December 10, 2017
SOURCES:
National Institute on Aging: "About Alzheimer's disease: Symptoms," "Caregiver Guide: Tips for caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease," "Caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease."
Ballard, C. May 2013. Current Opinion in Psychiatry,
Alzheimer's Association: "Anxiety and agitation," "Treatments for sleep changes."
UpToDate: "Patient information: Tips for caregivers of people with Alzheimer disease (The Basics)" and "Patient information: Dementia (including Alzheimer disease) (Beyond the Basics)."
Beveridge, L. , June 21, 2011. Clinical Interventions in Aging
Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center: "Home safety for people with Alzheimer's disease."
SOURCES:
National Institute on Aging: "About Alzheimer's disease: Symptoms," "Caregiver Guide: Tips for caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease," "Caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease."
Ballard, C. May 2013. Current Opinion in Psychiatry,
Alzheimer's Association: "Anxiety and agitation," "Treatments for sleep changes."
UpToDate: "Patient information: Tips for caregivers of people with Alzheimer disease (The Basics)" and "Patient information: Dementia (including Alzheimer disease) (Beyond the Basics)."
Beveridge, L. , June 21, 2011. Clinical Interventions in Aging
Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center: "Home safety for people with Alzheimer's disease."
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