Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care: How Home Services Support Quality of Life
Choosing home care services for seniors can greatly simplify the decision-making process that comes with having an aging loved one. It’s a great way to have the person stay at home and is also possible if the person has dementia or Alzheimer's.
Dementia is an umbrella term describing the loss of cognitive and memory abilities, caused by changes in the brain. Alzheimer's is the cause of most cases of dementia, but other things, such as vascular dementia, can be responsible. In both cases, treatment and care are similar and need to be adapted specifically to each person. Here’s all you need to know about home services for a loved one with dementia.
What Is Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care?
Alzheimer’s and dementia care needs to be assessed based on the progression of the disease and the specific needs of the person. The state of the current home also comes into play.
Several things can be done to ensure that the home is safe for a senior with dementia, such as removing small carpets or items that the person could easily trip on. Having at least one handrail on stairs and adding high-visibility tape where needed are also options.
Some medical care can be provided, such as helping with medication. There isn’t a cure for either dementia or Alzheimer’s, but some treatments can help slow down the progression of the disease.
Services for dementia patients can cover many things, from simple support in daily tasks with cognitive activities, up to a more intensive level of care for personal hygiene, meal preparation and constant presence. Other types of care might be necessary depending on the person.
A key point to consider is that it’s always better to start early, even if the person is still independent. First, many types of care, such as maintaining a healthy routine and participating in cognitive activities, can help with the disease itself. Also, as the disease progresses, the person is more likely to feel distress in case of changes. Making the bigger changes early will avoid such distress by giving them time to adapt.
How Hard Is It To Take Care of Mom or Dad With Alzheimer’s?
Caring for parents with dementia at home can be rewarding, but it’s never an easy task, requiring time and effort. Many factors should be evaluated if you are considering becoming a caregiver for dementia patients at home. It goes without saying that your pre-existing responsibilities are important: your family and your career, but also your income, your living situation and the extent of your network of support.
Alzheimer’s care might require you to move in with your parents or, at the very least, move closer. Some people choose to have loved ones moving into their homes. In such a situation, it’s essential to have a conversation with your partner and children if this applies to your situation.
When providing such care, it’s fundamental to take care of yourself by having some time off, when you can decompress and rest. Never hesitate to ask for help, be it from other family members, or professional help. Sometimes, just a little bit of relief, given by a professional, is all you need.
How Long Can Someone With Dementia Stay at Home?
If the person is living alone, they can remain at home until they are no longer able to take care of themselves or maintain their home. This could mean they are no longer showering or eating properly, or that their home is not being kept in a livable condition. In terms of delay, for Alzheimer’s, the number of years falls between 4 and 8 years. However, in certain circumstances, a person can stay relatively autonomous for up to 20 years after diagnosis.
That said, this doesn’t necessarily mean that your loved one would need to be moved into an Alzheimer’s nursing home. With the help of a caregiver, either from the family or a hired professional, a senior can stay home for many years. Private home care for Alzheimer’s patients can alleviate the responsibilities of the immediate family and allow the person to age in peace, in their home.
How Does a Senior Home Care Agency Help in Dementia?
A senior home care agency provides professional services for seniors, covering all aspects of care and dementia support. These services can cover many needs, from helping with medication, physical therapy and doing cognitive activities.
Depending on the progression of the disease, the level of care will be adjusted. For example, in the early stages, the care could simply mean helping out with basic home care, escorting the person to appointments and helping with finances. When needed, these can extend to help with personal hygiene, cooking, and more.
If there’s a caregiver already present for the senior, such as an adult child, home care can provide extra support. This would allow some relief for the caregiver. Such care isn’t one-size-fits-all and will be assessed depending on the needs.
Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s isn’t an easy task. Whether you choose to provide care yourself or not, seeking professional Alzheimer’s care can help the person remain in their home for many years while maintaining an optimal quality of life. With the right support, seniors can continue to live safely and comfortably in a familiar environment.