Care of patients with Alzheimer's disease and their families.
Although the medical management options in Alzheimer's disease are limited, physicians have a central role in addressing multiple associated care needs of these patients and their families. These needs change according to different stages of the disease. Sensitive disclosure of diagnosis and providing education, guidance, and appropriate referrals to community resources are essential components to an effective care plan. By making use of a multidisciplinary network of care providers, the physician can ensure the family of proactive management throughout the course of the disease.
Snyder
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Clinical Social Worker, University of California, San Diego, Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, La Jolla, California 92093, USA. lsnyder@ucsd.edu
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D016223:Advance Directives; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D003376:Counseling; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D005853:Geriatrics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007255:Information Services; D007326:Institutionalization; D020407:Internet; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000458:organization & administration; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010819:Physician's Role; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000379:methods*; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012144:Respite Care; D013727:Terminal Care