In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, patients experience a higher quality of life by remaining in the comfort of their own home as long as possible. Professional in-home care support services are very beneficial for the elderly suffering from Dementia and family members and loved ones, for short or longer term care solutions. As Dementia patients thrive on a routine which helps them with long term memory, they experience any change as frightful. Because the disease progresses quickly, seniors themselves often refuse any help such as home care. Dementia behaviour is known to transpire into an aggressive stage which is very challenging to manage for everyone and must be handled by a care professional not to further escalate.
Private quality homecare companies provide a high standard of personalized and flexible in-home care services such as Personal Care, Companionship, Homemaking and Specialized Care such as Dementia care. Below are their services:
Personal care: assists with activities of Daily Living (ADL) such as showering/bathing, toileting grooming, eating, changing, transferring, medication reminders, light exercise & more.
Companionship care: offers emotional & cognitive support and a healthy social routine benefit.
By hiring a private in-home care provider, you receive a carefully pre-screened, chosen qualified and consistent Caregiver who will communicate effectively with the patient to minimize confusion. The Dementia patient is supported with a healthy routine which helps provide a calm & comfortable home environment.
It is proven that Caregiver's consistency has a very positive effect on Dementia patients. As it supports the patient's orientation, it might also help slow down memory loss. All caregiver visits are regularly scheduled and encourage stimulating & enjoyable activities. The senior & family will benefit from specialized Dementia & Alzheimer's care that assists with the below:
Personal care - maintains a healthy routine
Monitoring and managing Dementia behaviours
At home safety by reducing fall risks
Companionship
Cognitive stimulation
Encourages light exercise
Motivates to stay socially active social activities
Provides transportation
Most home care providers will also recommend mobility equipment to support home safety and mobility. Caregivers also provide very helpful Respite care - caregiver relief - for a short period of time for any family members to avoid burnout.
When choosing a home care professional, ensure to select one with a strong reputation for the highest standard of quality and compassionate care which offers a great relief to the Dementia patients and families including a peace of mind during the care time.
It is crucial to understand how your loved one is affected by the specific disease. Therefore, ensure to continuously educate yourself on Dementia & Alzheimer's disease and behaviour. That will help you to effectively communicate with the Dementia/Alzheimer's patient. Alzheimer's disease is only one type of dementia and is the most known and common type of dementia. It's important to know and understand that not every person suffering from Dementia has Alzheimer's disease. Your local Dementia & Alzheimers Society offers helpful educational resources and emotional support.
Always plan ahead to be prepared and prevent a family crisis when the disease progresses as it will affect the patient’s personal safety. Converse with the Family Physician regularly and be open to advice by your home care provider who offers helpful feedback. As the Dementia & Alzheimer's progresses quickly, the care changes will increase quickly. Your chosen home care provider will discuss changing care needs and adjust the flexible care plan.
Read more helpful information on Dementia/Alzheimer's, visit:
Image: courtesy of Alzheimer's Society Canada
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