Adjusting to Alzheimer's and Dementia: How Home Care Can Help Your Loved One Age In Place

Navigating a loved one's dementia or Alzheimer's diagnosis can be difficult and overwhelming. Home care is an excellent option for those who are looking to help their loved one age in place!

About Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior, and it is one of the most common forms of dementia. The symptoms of Alzheimer's can vary widely among individuals, but common early signs include memory loss, difficulty in completing familiar tasks, and challenges in problem-solving. As dementia progresses, individuals may experience increased confusion, mood swings, and difficulty with language, which can be distressing not only for them but also for their caregivers. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial, as it allows for timely intervention and support, helping to manage the disease's impact on daily life and enhance the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.

Diagnosis of Alzheimer's typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals, including neurologists and geriatricians, who assess cognitive function through various tests and assessments.

As dementia progresses, the needs of a person with Alzheimer's will evolve; caregivers may find themselves adapting to new challenges as their loved one's abilities decline. This can include changes in communication, the need for assistance with daily activities, and a heightened focus on safety and emotional support. Understanding these dynamics is essential for caregivers, as it enables them to provide the appropriate care and maintain a supportive environment throughout the journey of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

Changing Needs: How Can Home Care help?

Home care can be a key part in navigating the challenges of a loved one's Alzheimer's diagnosis. Home care aides are trained to assist with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, and oral hygiene, as well as home care tasks like light cleaning and meal preparation. Many families choose to engage a home care agency to support caretaking tasks, with the frequency of visits and specific tasks being customizable to fit individual needs. A home health aide not only provides personalized care and companionship but also offers cognitive stimulation through engaging activities and conversation, which can help slow the progression of symptoms. By creating a safe and nurturing environment, they alleviate stress and anxiety for both the patient and their family, contributing to a more manageable daily routine. Because a client's care plan can be updated at any time, home care is well suited to meet the shifting needs of your loved one and help them to age in place. Aging in place simply means helping your loved one maintain as much independence as possible so that they can live at home for as long as possible.

Alzheimer's Support

The following sources are available to help you navigate a new Alzheimer's or demetia diagnosis:

• The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.

• The National Institute on Aging provides health information informed by research and reviewed by experts to help you learn about healthy aging and common health conditions in older adults.

If you or a loved one have recieved an Alzheimer's or dementia diagnosis and are interested in home care as a part of your care plan, call Total at 219-937-2811 for a free in-home assessment today.