My nan has been diagnosed as EMI (Elderly Mentally Infirm) but what does that mean exactly?

Question

Is this a type of dementia or is it different and if so, how? Thanks.

Answer 1

Elderly Mentally Ill or Infirm is not really a diagnosis that can be applied to an individual, it is an umbrella term to help classify a range of illnesses affecting the elderly. Most elderly persons homes will have an EMI wing or unit. As stated, your Gran will most likely need a high level of care input but she will be encouraged to be as independent as possible. As an individual she will have a diagnosis such as dementia or Alzheimer's and will be treated accordingly. Its not the end of the world and you can help by helping her to keep touch with reality. Make sure you talk to her about world or local events that are happening now, make sure she doesn't lose contact with family and friends. Good luck to you both......Allan

Answer 2

Emi Dementia

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
My nan has been diagnosed as EMI (Elderly Mentally Infirm) but what does that mean exactly?
Is this a type of dementia or is it different and if so, how? Thanks.

Answer 4

It's a very general term and covers all types of dementia.
it doesn't necessarily mean that your nan can't manage or has to go into residential care. You need to ask for more information about the type of dementia and how it's likely to progress. Find out if she's been referred to a psycho-geriatrician and what treatment she will receive; some dementias can be delayed by medication; some areas run memory clinic.
Help your nan contact the local social services department to see what support is available for her. This is going to vary from area to area but should be about helping her to maintain her independence.
I've added some links below you might find useful.
Hope everything goes well for your family.

Answer 5

Emi Unit

Answer 6

EMI is mental illness in the elderly it does not necessarily mean dementia or 24 hour care,you have to find out what her diagnosis is before you think the worst.there are a wide range of mental health problems dementia being very common in elderly people this is a very sad illness and you often see your loved one slip back into the life they led many years ago,not recognising the loved ones around them,and yes the more severe cases do need 24 hr care and sometimes in patient hospital care within a specialist unit. let me know when you get the diagnosis and i will try and explain more my nan had dementia and i work in mental health.

Answer 7

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I work in a Residential Home for The Elderly, that has a 10 bedded EMI unit. In my opinion whereas it is helpful to know an individuals diagnosis and prognosis, it is more important to get to know the person themselves, and to self assess yourself in how you are going to cope with, and assist the person concerned. Someone admitted with `dementia` could have a mild type or be more advanced. Whatever sort they are afflicted with, they are going to get worse, which is why knowing, and being familiar with the person is so important in delivering a high quality of care.

Answer 8

I heard this mentioned by an occupational therapist about a relative. It's a diagnosis made after an assessment when the elderly person answers questions like what is your date of birth, what year is it, who is the prime minister and has to identify pictures of everyday objects. In our case, they said our relative had lost her higher executive functions which meant she couldn't plan or problem solve and would forget easily so needed to go into a residential home as she couldn't be self caring any more.

Answer 9

Ignore the nasty spiteful replies!!

Unfortunately you Nan is classed as mentally ill and therefore along with her age is unable to look after herself and would need 24/7 care.

I wish you all the best and that your Nan receives the best of care she deserves.

x

Answer 10

There are lots of different types of dementia with different presentations and causes, some are caused by physical problems and some illness mimic dementia. So you would need a good idea of what type of problem you are dealing so you can prescribe the right type of treatment.