Which of the following statements made by a family member of a client

Which of the following statements made by a family member of a client recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is most reflective of an understanding of this disease process?

1. “Dad has always been a fighter; he’ll fight this too. He won’t give up.”
2. “We have an appointment with his care provider to see about medication thera-py.”
3. “Good thing we found out about this early so steps can be taken to keep it from getting worse.”
4. “It usually progresses gradually so we are hoping it will be a while before his memory is gone.”

ANSWER

ANS: 2
Medications can slow the process of Alzheimer’s disease considerably when prescribed appropri-ately. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. This option suggests that the family member still clings to the hope that there is a cure. Alzheimer’s disease usually progresses gradually with a deterioration in function, but medications can be given to slow the progression of symptoms, not halt them. Although Alzheimer’s disease usually progresses gradually with a deterioration in function with some clients living years after the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, this option does not reflect the best understanding because no mention of management is made.