An 83, year old woman is recovering from pneumonia. She has Alzheimer’s disease and has become increasingly hostile and unmanageable in the home setting. Her 65, year old daughter is distraught about the idea of placing her mother in a long term care facility but feels she is not able to care for her. • As a nurse, what is your role in this situation? • How might you help the daughter with her decision? • What information would you give the daughter?

As a nurse in this situation, my role is to provide support and guidance to the 65-year-old daughter who is facing the difficult decision of placing her 83-year-old mother with Alzheimer’s disease in a long-term care facility. In order to assist the daughter, it is essential for me to understand the unique challenges and complexities associated with caring for an elderly individual with Alzheimer’s disease.

First and foremost, I would offer emotional support to the daughter, acknowledging her distress and empathizing with her feelings. It is important to validate her emotions and provide a safe space for her to express her concerns, fears, and frustrations. Understanding her emotional state will allow me to effectively communicate information and assist her in making an informed decision.

To help the daughter with her decision, I would provide her with information on the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, its impact on cognitive and functional abilities, and the specific challenges associated with caregiving for someone with this disease. This knowledge can help her comprehend the likely future trajectory of her mother’s condition, allowing her to make a decision based on both the current and anticipated needs of her mother.

I would also discuss the potential benefits of a long-term care facility for her mother. By highlighting the specialized care, support, and resources available in such facilities, I can help the daughter understand how her mother’s needs may be better met in this setting. This may include access to dementia-specific programming, 24/7 supervision, medical assistance, and social engagement opportunities that can improve both her mother’s quality of life and the daughter’s peace of mind.

Additionally, I would explore the daughter’s personal circumstances, including her own health, responsibilities, and level of support. Understanding her limitations and the impact that caregiving has on her own well-being is crucial. It may be beneficial to discuss the concept of caregiver burden and encourage her to prioritize her own self-care. This can empower the daughter to make a decision that not only considers her mother’s needs but also takes into account her own capacity to provide care.

In terms of information to provide the daughter, I would explain the different types of long-term care options available, such as assisted living communities, nursing homes, and memory care units. I would discuss the services and levels of care offered in each setting, addressing the daughter’s concerns and preferences.

I would also explain the admissions process for a long-term care facility, including the financial considerations, insurance coverage, and potential waiting lists. By providing this information, I can help the daughter navigate the practical aspects of making arrangements for her mother’s care.

Furthermore, I would introduce the concept of transitional care, which involves a gradual transition from home to a long-term care facility. This approach can ease the emotional burden for both the daughter and her mother, allowing them time to adjust and ensuring a smoother transition between environments.

To support the daughter further, I would encourage her to seek out additional resources and support networks. This may include connecting her with Alzheimer’s support groups, social workers, or other healthcare professionals who can provide valuable insights and guidance.