Our data underscore the importance of resident autonomy and quality of care in relation to visitors and visiting, especially how this relationship is affected by inconsistent and confusing formal and informal visiting policies in AL.
An unknown number of mentally ill elders in the U.S. receive care in assisted living [AL], along with persons facing physical or cognitive challenges. While dementia is familiar in AL, our data indicate that neither staff nor residents are prepared to work or live with the mentally ill. Challenges are created for professionals, since these residents bring diverse needs. Daily inter-resident interactions are also disrupted or stressful. Qualitative data describe the impacts on quality of resident life as well as care and management dilemmas identified within five assisted living settings having varying presence of mental illness among residents.
Students are often reluctant to realize that their parents, grandparents, or older clients may be using or abusing drugs. Recent research indicates that alcohol is the most frequently abused substance among adults over 50. Prescriptions rank second, but research shows dramatic increases in the use of illicit drugs by older females. Additionally, the over 50 age group had the highest hospital admission for illicit drugs such as heroin, cocaine, or opiates. The addiction simulation exercise ICE ICE BABY provides students with a deeper understanding of addiction, including an insight into the social experiences of drug/alcohol use and abuse. Explicit directions for using the exercise are included as well as reflections from students within two programs.
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