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Memory Disorder Center Addresses

Regional Alzheimer’s Dilemma

According to the Florida Department disease research. The Memory Disorder
of Elder Affairs, there are an estimated Center provides patients and caregivers
42,155 people age 65-plus with probable with access to new treatments, genetic
Alzheimer’s disease in Broward County. studies, clinical drug trials, behavioral
Perhaps of greater concern is that studies and caregiver research.
research shows that only 16% of U.S. Clinical trials and research available to
seniors receive regular cognitive assess- Alzheimer’s patients include:
ments during routine health check-ups. • The Alzheimer’s Disease Neuro -
The healthcare community must imaging Initiative, where investigators
address these alarming numbers. One are studying brain images and biomark-
way to bridge the care gap is through ers in people with normal cognitive
early detection so patients can be provid- aging; mild cognitive impairment (MCI),
ed with access to information, treatment a disorder that may precede Alzheimer’s
and support. disease; and early stages of Alzheimer’s,
The Memory Disorder Center at to develop better indicators of the disease
Broward Health North provides free and its progression.
memory screenings to help with early • Alzheimer’s disease genetics studies,
diagnosis and also offers community where researchers analyze DNA from
education on early recognition of memo- persons with and without the disease to
ry impairment issues. The Memory identify genes that may be Alzheimer’s
Disorder Center’s interdisciplinary team risk factors.
educates the community on the impor- • Clinical trials that are researching
tance of maintaining cognitive health new treatments, such as drugs or devices,
and screenings. as well as prevention methods and
Once a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s dis- changes in diet or lifestyle.
ease or related condition occurs an indi- “Without clinical trials, there can be
vidualized plan is developed to enhance no better treatments, no prevention and support groups, an annual four-hour ty,” said Milena Cedeno-Oblinger, RN,
function and quality of life for the no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, said Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative educational coordinator of the Memory Disorder
patient. Additional consults, referrals, Nora Uhrig, director of the Neurological program for respite providers, daycare spe- Center.
education and support help manage the Institute director at Broward Health cialists, nurse aides and healthcare profes- Broward Health North’s commitment to
chronic disease. Staff promote positive North. “Research can provide hope for sionals, and a Care Assistance Program increasing the number of eligible seniors
behavioral health, optimize medication those who are diagnosed.” (CAP) designed to educate family or who receive comprehensive cognitive
therapy, assess safety and driving, facili- The Memory Disorder Center also rec- friends about caring for a dependent loved screenings, treatments and support will
tate advanced care planning and end-of- ognizes that an Alzheimer’s diagnosis and one. continue until the care divide is closed.
life care, assess care partner needs, and resulting treatment affects not just the “CAP speakers discuss the disease
obtain services and support. patient, but also the family. To provide process, behavioral strategies, medica- To schedule an appointment at Broward
Clinical trials are also essential to support and education to caregivers, the tions, legal issues and resources available Health North’s Memory Disorder Center,
patient care and advancing Alzheimer’s Memory Disorder Center hosts monthly for Alzheimer’s patients in the communi- call (954) 786-7392.

Coming Next Month...

Annual Salute to Case Managers
Case Manager Profiles • National Breast Cancer Awareness Month • Advances in Oncology Treatment • Eldercare Trends in South Florida
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18 September 2019 southfloridahospitalnews.com South Florida Hospital News