A psychologist or neuropsychologist
A psychologist, especially one experienced in working with people with Alzheimer's, can help explain how the disease may affect the person's mood, personality, and behavior -- valuable considering that this is a disease of the mind. A neuropsychologist is a specialist who can describe how the condition of the brain (and the rest of the nervous system) relates to changes in memory, communication, personality, and behavior that result from the disease. Both a psychologist and a neuropsychologist can suggest ways to manage psychological or behavioral issues that arise as the disease progresses.
A geriatric clinical social worker, geriatric care manager or coordinator, or geriatric care consultant
This professional, who is often a social worker or nurse with special training and experience in geriatrics, can be a "secret weapon" of help -- secret because despite the profession's prevalence, patients often don't know about it.
This type of professional helps determine and provide individualized care, which may include:
- Evaluating your parent's ability to live independently or perform specific tasks;
- Assisting in the formation (and subsequent modifications) of a care plan;
- Offering information about available services and resources;
- Coordinating services, if desired;
- Giving advice on care-giving issues; and
- Mediating regarding care when family relationships become strained.
It's important that the geriatric care specialist you choose is someone with experience specifically with Alzheimer's care. This allows her to give accurate, comprehensive information about the disease process, symptom management, and treatment -- and you'll likely find that she has particularly insightful suggestions and opinions based on her experience working with other families living with Alzheimer's.
If you or other family members live far away from your parent, you'll find this informed, neutral, and well-connected specialist to be invaluable. For referrals, ask the physicians you're dealing with or your local hospital or aging associations.
A home healthcare nurse or aide
Taking on the responsibility of caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be overwhelming, especially as the disease progresses. It's a good idea to look into hiring an "extra pair of hands" even before you feel you need such help. A home healthcare nurse (sometimes called a visiting nurse) or aide is someone who has been trained to provide basic care to someone in her own home in order to help the person retain as much independence and quality of life as possible. This care may include assisting with simple activities like bathing, dressing, eating, organizing or light housekeeping, moving around, and making particular rooms and areas safer or easier to use.
Depending on the care provider's background, she may also be qualified to administer medications and lead physical therapy sessions. It can be helpful but not essential to find someone with experience caring specifically for Alzheimer's patients.
