alzheimer’s


Change in Number of Deaths between 2000 and 2008 +66%


Data based on preliminary 2008 mortality data. Source: www. alz.org, Alzheimer’s Association 2011 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures


-3% -8% -13% -20% -29%


JoAnn Straw gathers a group of women from the special care unit at Good Samaritan Society – Pipestone center for an afternoon hymn sing.


“There are different folks with different needs,” she says. “And each of them deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Just like we comb our hair or change our shirt if it’s dirty, that’s what we do for residents.”


so they’re happy and have something to look forward to. When I can get them to smile, that makes my day.”


Exercising, playing bingo, baking, putting together puzzles, painting, storytelling, and participating in Christian-themed activities often bring back memories for residents, staff members say.


“A lot of residents served in their churches,” Moore says, “so it’s awesome to be able to talk about God.”


Moore has worked in the special care unit for 10 of the 16 years she has been at the rehabilitation and skilled care center. Having previously worked in childcare, she describes the environment as a “daycare for seniors.”


Figland appreciates the care her mother receives. “It’s wonderful that there’s a facility that can keep her safe, make sure she gets her meds and meals, yet is flexible enough to cater to her personality.”


In Pipestone, staff members bring as many of the services they can to the special care unit.


It was only 30 years ago when awareness and research of the disease really began. Since then, the care approach has shifted from task- focused care — where caregivers would try to correct behaviors and responses — to person-focused care.


“People with Alzheimer’s do not live in the present,” Kutner says. “They will only become frustrated and agitated if you try to make them.”


Straw and Moore agree that while working with people who have dementia is rewarding, the job can be mentally and emotionally taxing.


“Communication and teamwork are key for staff members, especially between shifts,” Straw says. “That helps reduce stress.”


“You have to live in their truth. There is no point in redirecting them. It doesn’t matter that I have to answer the same question 15 times a


day. People with Alzheimer’s still have wants and needs and deserve to be treated as adults.” – JoAnn Straw, LPN


“We really need to work with what strengths they have to help them be as independent as possible,” Straw says.


Kutner says it’s critical that staff members who care for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias have certain qualities.


“The three best traits an Alzheimer’s 8 The Good Samaritan • 2011 • Vol. 45 • No. 2


The Good Samaritan Society provides memory care in skilled care and assisted living settings, and also serves those with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias through home care. Staff members in skilled care settings have the benefit of breaks and working in a team of professionals, but a spouse or adult child who serves as the primary caregiver of someone with


caregiver can have are patience, creativity and flexibility,” Kutner says. “We can train them in all the rules and regulations, but I don’t think you can teach someone empathy or how to be engaging.”


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