It’s not always easy to recognize the right time to seek care options for an aging loved one. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia worsen over time although the rate at which the disease progresses varies and is different for each person. A few signs that it may be time to put an in-home Alzheimer’s care plan into place include struggling with memory loss, lapses in judgement, difficulty forming words, frustration with performing daily tasks, and difficulty holding a conversation.
Alzheimer’s is only one of several different types of age-related dementia. We’ve all misplaced keys, forgotten a phone number or blanked on someone’s name. When we’re younger, we don’t pay much attention to these lapses, but for those who are aging, it can be a bit scary. Providing in-home dementia care for an aging loved one in today’s busy society is sometimes difficult. When it’s possible, the best place to extend what’s left of their memory is in their own home or the home of one of their children. A person with dementia usually responds better in familiar surroundings. However, family members are usually busy with their own day-to-day schedules (work, family, etc.) and taking time out to provide in-home dementia care is sometimes impossible. That’s where we come in. Whether it’s a few hours a day to relieve a family caregiver or 24/7 in home Alzheimer’s care 365 days a year, we are here to help.
In-home dementia care requires a customized plan. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Our Registered Nurses perform detailed in-home assessments for new clients at no cost and prepare an individual Plan of Care according to each client’s needs. Our services are distinguished by the caliber of our caregivers, the responsiveness and experience of our staff and the quality of care that we provide. All of our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year which includes training that focuses on in-home Alzheimer’s care and caring for people with other cognitive changes. Allcare caregivers assist clients in the comfort of their homes with compassion, dignity and the respect they deserve.
Tips for Caring for a Loved One with Dementia:
- Create a safe environment– Prevent falls by avoiding throw rugs, extension cords and other items in walking areas. Install grab bars in areas where they are needed. Install locks on medicine cabinets and cabinets containing harmful chemicals, tools or sharp items.
- Limit challenges– They sometimes become agitated when unable to perform tasks that were once familiar to them. It’s important to limit challenges as much as possible by not trying to force them to do things that may now be difficult.
- Be patient– It may take longer to perform tasks now, so allow them to do things at a pace that is comfortable for him or her. Scheduling tasks such as bathing/showering, medical appointments, etc., work best when they are alert and feeling refreshed.
- Redirect during ‘sundowning’ periods– They can become agitated or more confused than usual at certain times of the day; this is referred to as ‘sundowning’ periods. They may insist on “going home” or “going to work”, although they may have retired decades ago and have not lived at “home” since they were in their teen years. Insisting they are no longer working, or that “home” is no longer an option can sometimes agitate them even more. It’s important to ‘redirect’ by asking them questions pertaining to their hobbies or interests. If they were an artist, ask them how they became interested or if they can teach you. Involving them in a simple task such as assisting with folding laundry, sweeping the floor or setting the table for a meal during the day can avoid napping and sometimes prevent them from confusing days and nights.
- Allow them to make simple choices– Helping to choose from two outfits or two desserts, for example.
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s or other cognitive impairment, contact us for a customized, detailed consultation for in home dementia care.