Alzheimer's Program Slidell, Mandeville, Folson, Lacome, New Orleans, Gentilly, Algiers, Covington & Westbank, LA

Alzheimer’s Program

We have developed a comprehensive 12-week program that incorporates the types of exercise and cognitive interventions that research has shown may be effective in slowing the progression of symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

It is covered by insurance in nearly all cases.

OUR ALZHEIMER’S PROGRAM INCLUDES:

  • Complete Assessment – This includes Balance, Agility, Strength, Cognitive Function, Physical Fitness and Mood.
  • Treatment that includes developing strength, balance, aerobic condition, coordination and agility.
  • Treatment of any physical impairments that may interfere with daily function.
  • Cognitive Training and Social sessions to help to stimulate different types of mental activity.
  • Comprehensive Reassessments with reports to your physician.

ALZHEIMER’S FACTS

Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, research has shown promise that we can slow its progression. Some medications can be beneficial. Also, the correct exercise regimen may slow the worsening of symptoms.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, degenerative disorder that attacks the brain’s nerve cells. It results in loss of memory, thinking and language skills. It also causes behavioral changes.

Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may have trouble finding the right words to use, recognizing objects, recognizing family and friends, and may become frustrated, irritable, and agitated. As the disease progresses, physical problems may include loss of strength and balance, and diminishing bladder and bowel control. As more and more of the brain is affected, areas that control basic life functions, like swallowing and breathing, become irreversibly damaged, resulting eventually in death.

One in nine people aged 65 and older has Alzheimer’s disease.

The disease can also occur in people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. However, most people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s are older than age 65. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease accounts for up to 10% of Alzheimer’s cases.

EARLY (MILD) STAGE

In this stage, people may:

  • Forget words or misplace objects
  • Forget something they just read
  • Ask the same question over and over
  • Have increasing trouble making plans or organizing
  • Not remember names when meeting new people

MIDDLE (MODERATE) STAGE

In this stage, people may:

  • Experience increased memory loss and confusion
  • Have problems recognizing family and friends
  • Continuously repeat stories, favorite wants (e.g., foods, places, songs, etc.), or motions
  • Have difficulty performing complex tasks (e.g., planning dinner) or handling personal finances
  • Show lack of concern for hygiene and appearance
  • Require assistance in choosing proper clothing to wear

LATE (SEVERE) STAGE

In this stage, people may:

  • Recognize faces but forget names
  • Mistake a person for someone else
  • Suffer delusions—such as thinking he/she needs to go to work
  • Feel a strong need for holding something close for tactile stimulation, nurturing, companionship and comfort
  • Lose basic abilities such as eating, walking, and sitting up. The individual may no longer recognize when he is thirsty or hungry and will need help with all basic activities of daily living.

For more information, request an appointment from one of our Algiers, Mandeville, Slidell, New Orleans Lakefront, New Orleans East, Folsom and Covington, LA physical therapy clinics.