Society for Alzheimer's Support - Dementia patients lacking proper hospital care
According to the German Alzheimer Society, many hospitals aren't ready to handle patients with dementia. There are even shocking stories about their hospital stays. If dementia is discovered during the admission process, special assistance can be provided, and complications can be minimized, according to Steffen Gramminger, the managing director of the Hessian Hospital Association.
Cognitive teams are considered a valuable resource in treating dementia patients in hospitals. Patients with dementia enjoy the company of dementia companions, who create a peaceful atmosphere during challenging situations, speeding up procedures.
"Cognitive companions support dementia patients, their families, provide safety, and ease the burden on carers and doctors," Gramminger said. It's estimated that 20% of all people older than 65 have cognitive limitations or dementia-related changes. For around 90% of those with dementia, delirium can occur, which may result in a longer hospital stay and hasten cognitive decline.
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The German Hospital Association based in Frankfurt am Main, Hesse, is working to improve care for dementia patients in hospitals. The lack of proper hospital care for dementia patients is a concern raised by the German Alzheimer Society. To minimize complications, Gramminger suggests that hospitals should implement special assistance during the admission process for patients with dementia.
