Professional Home Care for Dementia: When to Consider
The question of whether dementia patients fair better at home is a recurrent concern among family and friends of individuals recently diagnosed with dementia. Mastering the art of caring for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, while simultaneously deciphering the labyrinth that is the healthcare system, is a daunting task for families.
Opting for home care for patients with Alzheimer’s is often the most suitable choice, providing several advantages such as:
- Familiarity with the environment;
- Increased confidence in caregivers;
- Tailored care;
- Potential for an extended, fulfilling life;
- Financial benefits compared to assisted living or nursing homes.
However, the burden of caring for a dementia patient as a family member or an adult child can be overwhelming. It may eventually become necessary to consider professional in-home care for dementia patients. We delve into how best to care for seniors with dementia in the home setting, and the duration of home care, and answer questions like “Can Alzheimer’s patients live at home?” and “How long can dementia patients live at home?”
The Prevalence of Dementia Among Seniors
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia considerably hamper several cognitive functions such as memory, critical thinking, behavior, reasoning, and emotions. Sadly, these symptoms progressively worsen over time.
Millions of families have their lives upended by Alzheimer’s and dementia, and the progressive nature of the disease puts a considerable strain on family caregivers. Many dementia cases remain undiagnosed due to the lack of resources dedicated to home health care for dementia patients, making it challenging to determine the actual percentage of seniors affected by dementia.
Current estimates suggest that over 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. This could be a conservative figure considering the aging Baby Boomer population. Research has shown that 63% of dementia patients are over the age of 80.
Living alone can be dangerous for seniors with Alzheimer’s. However, with the appropriate in-home care, elderly adults with dementia can lead full and satisfactory lives.
Is Home Care Possible for Alzheimer’s Patients?
With comprehensive care and specialized training, caregivers or family members can ensure dementia patients enjoy the comforts of their homes. However, caring for a dementia patient isn’t a walk in the park. Since dementia symptoms differ in progression, caregivers must fully understand the specific needs of the dementia patient.
We present ten strategies to make home care more effective for seniors with dementia:
- Identify local support resources and develop a contingency plan before urgent issues arise;
- Create routines and train caregivers to follow them consistently;
- Treat dementia patients with dignity, even when they reject care or appear unresponsive;
- Identify and avoid triggers that cause discomfort or anxiety in patients;
- Break down complex tasks into simpler, manageable steps for the patient;
- Watch out for signs of dehydration, malnutrition, and other physical conditions that can exacerbate dementia symptoms;
- Maintain consistency in medical appointments and always accompany the patient;
- Explore various dementia care options to find the most suitable for your situation;
- Exercise patience with Alzheimer’s patients, avoiding arguments and using distractions when necessary;
- Engage in family activities, ensuring the senior feels included.
While these tips are integral to managing home care for dementia patients, each dementia case is unique. It’s vital to acknowledge when professional home care assistance becomes necessary for effective management.
Indicators That It’s Time for Home Care for Dementia Patients
A common question family caregivers often wrestle with is, “How long can dementia patients live at home?” While each case is peculiar to the individual, certain indicators can help families decide when it’s necessary to seek professional home help.
| Safety Concerns | The safety of a dementia patient living alone is a top priority. Once the patient starts posing a risk to themselves, it might be the appropriate time to consider professional caregiving. |
| Impact on Family | If looking after a dementia patient begins to adversely affect the family’s emotional or physical health, it might be necessary to seek external help. |
| Diminishing Abilities | If the dementia patient begins to lose the ability to perform basic tasks independently, bringing in a professional caregiver may be required. |
Are Dementia Patients Better Off at Home?
The consensus is that Alzheimer’s and dementia patients can live at home if they receive adequate care and supervision. Provided they are suitably cared for, Alzheimer’s and dementia patients can indeed enjoy considerable benefits from remaining at home.
Professional Home Care Services for Dementia Patients
Dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia often involves enlisting the services of professional in-home care agencies like Stowell Associates. Recognized as a leading senior care provider, Stowell Associates prides itself on ensuring that your loved ones can continue to live at home for as long as possible.
How to Make Home Care More Effective for Dementia Patients
The right home care strategy can enhance the life quality of dementia patients. A well-devised care plan incorporates activities that stimulate mental activity, ensure patient safety, and promote physical wellness. It’s also crucial to include periods of rest to prevent fatigue.
Conclusion
Taking care of a loved one with dementia can be overwhelming, but many patients indeed fair better at home when provided with the right support. With proper professional help, a robust and effective care plan, and a little patience, you can ensure a significantly improved quality of life for your loved one with dementia.
Navigating the journey of dementia care can feel overwhelming, but it’s crucial to remember that every dementia patient’s situation is unique. With the right support, many seniors can indeed live safely and comfortably at home, preserving their quality of life and familiar surroundings. Recognizing when to engage in professional care can ensure your loved one receives the best care tailored to their needs. Remember, the goal is always to provide a loving, respectful, and dignified environment that maximizes their comfort and well-being.
