BUS FPX 3026 Assessment 4 Health Care Stakeholders and Related Disease Indicators BUS-FPX3026 Foundations and Future of Health Care Delivery Management Health Care Stakeholders and Related Disease Indicators Managerial Roles in Home Health Care and Assisted Living

BUS FPX 3026 Assessment 4 Health Care Stakeholders and Related Disease Indicators BUS-FPX3026 Foundations and Future of Health Care Delivery Management Health Care Stakeholders and Related Disease Indicators Managerial Roles in Home Health Care and Assisted Living

My managerial career in healthcare encompasses both home health care services and assisted living facilities. With over 800,000 Americans residing in assisted living environments and an even larger number receiving home care, these services are critical stakeholders in the modern healthcare system. They prioritize the wellness of seniors by focusing on intellectual stimulation, socialization, and personal health. As a manager in these settings, my responsibilities include overseeing daily operations, approving dietary plans, participating in budget discussions, and fostering a positive living environment for those under our care (Fikar & Hirsch, 2017).

Impact of Dementia on Home Health Care Services

Home health care services address a wide range of patient needs, including nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. However, dementia significantly impacts this stakeholder group. This chronic cognitive disorder is characterized by memory impairment, personality changes, and impaired reasoning. Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of progressive dementia among older adults, although various factors can contribute to its onset (Stokes et al., 2020).

Dementia: A Growing Concern

Dementia presents substantial challenges for both individuals and healthcare systems. In the United States, more than 6 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease, with projections estimating that this number could rise to nearly 13 million by 2050. Furthermore, Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia have a considerable mortality impact, with one in three seniors dying from these conditions, which surpasses the combined mortality rates of breast and prostate cancer (Stokes et al., 2020).

Similarly, the United Kingdom is facing a rising prevalence of dementia, with estimates suggesting that over 2 million individuals will be affected by 2051. The socioeconomic burden is significant, as dementia and memory-related issues account for 80% of individuals in care homes. Additionally, comorbidities complicate the situation, with 92% of dementia patients in the UK experiencing at least one other health condition (Jackson et al., 2017).

Cross-Country Disparities in Dementia

There are notable differences between the United States and the United Kingdom regarding the prevalence and outcomes of dementia. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension significantly contribute to the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The higher prevalence of these risk factors, along with a sedentary lifestyle and untreated depression, is more pronounced in the U.S., which may explain the increased incidence of dementia compared to the UK (Rathod-Mistry et al., 2021).

Addressing Dementia Challenges in Home Health Care

Home health care services are essential in addressing the challenges associated with dementia. Providing education and training for employees on dementia care is crucial, as it equips caregivers with the skills needed to manage symptoms effectively. Collaborating with researchers enhances our understanding of the condition, while community education initiatives improve awareness and support networks for individuals affected by dementia and their families.

References

Fikar, C., & Hirsch, P. (2017). Home health care routing and scheduling: A review. Computers & Operations Research, 77, 86-95.