When you receive the news that your grandparent or parent has Alzheimer’s or Dementia, you may feel heartbroken and even lost. You naturally might fear for your loved one’s safety, and you may also be uncertain about being able to handle the necessary care for your loved one while also caring for your own family and keeping up with work or school assignments. Alzheimer’s and dementia care services were created specifically to help families to adequately care for elderly members who are losing their cognitive abilities.
Early Stages
Early-stage Alzheimer’s and dementia care is designed for people who are in the disease’s beginning stages. Alzheimer’s involves degeneration of one’s brain, while dementia involves the loss of one’s brain function – including memory and judgment. The early stage can last years and result in mild alterations in one’s ability to learn and think. However, the individual may still engage in two-sided conversation and take part in regular activities. Caregivers help these people by providing companionship, manage money and plan for the future.
Middle and Later Stages
In the middle stage of these types of disorders, a person might struggle to perform normal tasks and express thoughts due to brain damage. Such individuals might jumble words, struggle to get dressed, become frustrated or even refuse to bathe. Caregiving responsibilities become more demanding at this stage. In the later stage, the disease has advanced so much that a person may have difficulty swallowing and eating. People with Alzheimer’s or dementia might also need help walking and require full-time assistance and personal care. These individuals may no longer be able to communicate using words and are susceptible to infections. Caregivers are paramount for keeping these individuals as healthy and safe as possible.
The Senior Care Provider You Choose
An Alzheimer’s and dementia care company needs to be driven to preserve your loved one’s dignity and quality of life. Caregivers should be able to connect with the person, for instance, by looking at old pictures with him or her. When a caregiver focuses on your loved one’s core needs around the clock, your loved one can feel as comfortable as possible, thus enabling you and your family to feel comfortable as well.
