In my Alzheimer’s Word of the Week post last week, I wrote about nursing homes and mentioned some people didn’t like to mention the word.  Alicia, blogger at Mental Health Notes, wrote a very enlightening comment, which I think gives insight into the varying reactions to this term.

The term “nursing home” always strikes different emotions from different people, doesn’t it? I think it’s due to a variety of reasons (the poor reputations some nursing homes have, the idea that putting your loved ones in a nursing home is neglectful and selfish, the sad fact that some people actually do “dump” their loved ones in nursing homes and fail to visit them, etc.). It’s sad that, because of these things, those of us who’ve solicited the help of experienced, round-the-clock care are frowned upon by some people. When really, nursing homes are the only responsible options many people have.

The media, in their reports, often focus on the neagative aspects of nursing homes and mention those that may not measure up.  Many nursing homes do a great job, as I found with Mother and Auntie.  These ladies were well cared for in their respective nursing homes, a fact that  gave me peace of mind when I could no longer care for them adequately.  Then when I visited Mother and Auntie, I could relax and enjoy them, bringing them joy, too, I hope.

(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen

Post from: Blisstree

The Positive Side of Nursing Homes for Alzheimer’s Patients

Genetics – relating to the scientific study of heredity or relating to the study of one’s genes.  In referring to Alzheimer’s, researchers are trying to determine whether there are factors involved with this disease that may indicate that it, or some types, are hereditary.

Since both my mom and her sister (my aunt) had Alzheimer’s disease in their older age, people often ask me if I’m concerned about it being hereditary.  Since there isn’t a test we know of at present, there doesn’t seem much point in my worrying about it. 

 I am naturally concerned and know what signs to look for since I cared for Mother and Auntie.  But people develop Alzheimer’s with no history of it in their family, so at this point we don’t know that it’s genetic and that I should worry.

(Amazon image)

(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen

Post from: Blisstree

Alzheimer’s Word of the Week