For The Love of Mr. Benson

Approaching Alzheimer’s Care/A Director of Nursing’s’ Perspective

By Angela Posey-Arnold RN BSN

As Director of Nursing in a Long Term Care facility I had the privilege to care for many residents diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Caring for these patients has many rewards and challenges. Administering an antipsychotic drug to keep them quite is not the answer. Physically restraining them is not the answer.

Behavior management is essential to successfully care for patients with dementia. Each patient is incredibly unique and their care has to be adapted to their unique individual needs.