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Medical copays reduce health care access in MS prisons; Israel planted explosives in pagers sold to Hezbollah according to official sources; Serving looks with books: Libraries fight 'fast fashion' by lending clothes; Menhaden decline threatens Virginia's ecosystem, fisheries.

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JD Vance calls for toning down political rhetoric, while calls for his resignation grow because of his own comments. The Secret Service again faces intense criticism, and a right to IVF is again voted down in the US Senate.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

Pandemic Prep Critical for Caregivers of People with Alzheimer’s

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Monday, March 30, 2020   

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- People with Alzheimer's and their caregivers face a unique set of challenges during the coronavirus pandemic. In Tennessee, more than 120,000 people age 65 or older are affected by Alzheimer's.

While dementia itself doesn't increase risk for COVID-19 illness, experts say associated behaviors and health conditions that accompany memory loss might. Kelsey Williams, program manager at the Alzheimer's Association in Tennessee, said increased confusion is often a key indicator that a person living with Alzheimer's isn't feeling well.

"People with dementia are often under-diagnosed and under-treated for viruses like influenza and other conditions because they can't communicate verbally that something might be wrong," Williams said.

She added caregivers can place signs in bathrooms and kitchens as extra reminders to wash hands with soap for 20 seconds, and even demonstrate proper hand-washing. And families who need guidance can call the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 COVID-19 helpline at 800-272-3900.

Williams pointed out that as the coronavirus outbreak unfolds, families should expect less help from community resources, and should work now to come up with an emergency plan.

"Make alternative care management plans if that primary caregiver should become sick," she said.

She noted it's also important for home caregivers to maintain a routine and stock up on groceries and medications to reduce outside trips.

"People with dementia oftentimes look to others for cues as to how to respond to their environment," Williams said. "But for caregivers, it's particularly important to try to remain as calm as possible when interacting with their loved ones with dementia."

In response to the pandemic, Medicare has temporarily expanded its coverage of telehealth services. Williams said for Alzheimer's patients with mild symptoms, or to maintain routine check-ups, communicating with healthcare providers via phone or teleconference is a safer bet than in-person doctor visits.


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