It is common for individuals to notice that the older they get the harder it becomes for them to remember things. Although slight memory loss is a common occurrence as we age, dementia is a much more serious problem. Individuals with dementia may not be able to prepare meals for themselves, travel outside of their neighborhood, or recall where they have placed certain items. This progressive form of memory loss can be frustrating as well as scary.
Dementia is a general term referring to a decline in mental functioning that is so severe it interferes with daily functioning. Dementia is not one specific disease, but rather a range of symptoms associated with declined memory or other thinking skills. Dementia is not part of the normal aging process. Individuals who have dementia have impaired memory, problems with communication and language, have problems focusing or paying attention, have difficulties with reasoning and judgment, and poor visual perception. As the disease progresses and gradually gets worse an individual’s ability to properly function and take care of themselves declines.
Discovering that your memory problems are a result of dementia and the lifestyle changes associated with this diagnosis can be unsettling news. News like this can leave you feeling lost with many questions to be answered. The loving staff here at Abilene is here to help you work through your emotions about your dementia and get you set up with a plan to help manage your symptoms. Since family is often involved in the care of a loved one with dementia we will also take the time to work with your family, explaining to them about your condition and how they can most effectively support you. We are here for you throughout the entire process. Abilene is the answer to your questions.
Why Should You Consider Treatment at Abilene
There are many different types of dementia - some are reversible with proper care and medication while others can only be managed. The sooner you seek treatment for your dementia the better as early detection allows for the maximum benefits and time for future planning. If left unmanaged the symptoms can quickly worsen and can cause the individual to be inadvertently put in harm’s way.
Due to the different causes of dementia we conduct comprehensive evaluations in order to accurately diagnose and treat each individual. Based on the initial assessment each individual receives a personalized care plan that is best suited to their unique needs. Our full continuum of care allows us to help individuals who are experiencing different types of dementia. We are not a one-size-fits-all type of program. Additionally, our holistic approach to mental health treatment ensures that the mind, body, and spirit are able to heal. Focus is not placed exclusively upon symptom management.
At Abilene we understand that due to the nature of this condition many individuals will also be experiencing a co-occurring disorder. Our treatment team includes these other mental health conditions in the treatment helping to control additional symptoms and teaching patients new ways of coping. We will do everything possible to return you to your highest level of functioning so you can live a happier life.
Program Philosophy and Benefits
Our mission at Abilene is to have a world-class behavioral health center that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of mental health throughout the lifespan. We are fully committed to providing mental health services that include individualized treatment plans and quality, patient-centered care. We want to help instill a sense of hope in individuals struggling through troubling times. The compassionate staff here at Abilene wants to provide a safe, stable, and predictable environment that you are able to feel comfortable during a time in which nothing is certain.
Types of Therapy Used to Treat Dementia at Abilene
The dementia program at Abilene is designed as a short term, acute care, and crisis intervention unit for individuals of all ages. While we offer many things, our program is not designed for long-term treatment, although once you are stabilized we can work with local providers to locate a proper care center or connect you with homecare services. Sometimes individuals come to us presenting with symptoms from co-occurring disorder that have come about as a result of their dementia. Other individuals simply need changes made with their medication or help with medication management. The main goal is to get an individual back to their highest level of functioning and determine long-term solutions that work for the whole family.
If the intake assessment indicates that the problems are due to a worsening in an individual’s condition then we will work to get the new symptoms under control and create a discharge plan for the most appropriate form of long-term or home care. Even though we ourselves are not a long term care program you can take comfort in the fact that we are dedicated to providing you with the best care available.
We offer family sessions which allows family members to be educated as to their loved ones condition and best care strategies, what constitutes a crisis and how to respond, self-care for caretakers, and all family members are provided with support and other resources in their community to help them cope. We will also work with your loved ones to ensure that your aftercare plan treatment goals are appropriate for your situation.
While we don’t typically engage in traditional individual or group therapy, we have developed a unique holistic program aimed at mind and body health. Some of the components of our program include:
- Reminiscence therapy
- Specific memory exercises to improve short and long term memory
- Adaptive living skills to improve the ability to be as independent as possible
- Creative skills based group therapy
- Yoga therapy
- Music therapy
Continuity of Care – What Comes Next
From the very beginning of treatment at Abilene we work hard to get your loved one stabilized and determining the best course of action for when they are ready to leave our program. If it is determined that the best placement for your loved one it to return home under the care of family we will make sure that families have all the information needed to provide safe, effective care. Sometimes an individual can no longer be safely cared for at home. If this is the situation you are faced with we will work closely with you and your loved one to locate the best program based on their needs. When it is time to be discharged from Abilene we will do everything we can to make the transition as comfortable and smooth as possible.
If you or your loved one is worried about increasing memory loss or other concerning symptoms please call Abilene to discuss your options. We can work together to determine next steps.