Living with dementia can be extremely stressful for affected individuals as well their families. Family members supporting an aging loved one with dementia can become overwhelmed with the level of care and assistance that is needed. Seeking dementia care services from a professional home care agency can be an excellent resource to help manage symptoms and reduce stress.
What Is Dementia?
The term dementia does not apply to one specific disease, but a range of mental impairments and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s. Symptoms typically associated with dementia include:
- Memory loss
- Impaired judgement
- Reduced critical thinking skills and decision making abilities
- Limited focus and concentration
- Changes in mood and behaviour
- Wandering
- Inhibited language and ability to perform routine tasks
- Social isolation and depression
Dementia can affect each individual a little differently, but if your loved one is exhibiting any potential signs of dementia it is highly recommended to undergo professional assessment as soon as possible.
Benefits Of Dementia Care Services
Dementia care services can be extremely helpful to become more educated about the issue to manage symptoms and minimize cognitive impairment. A professional home care agency can offer dementia care services in the comfort of home for optimal convenience and results. Studies show that dementia patients are generally better off at home to provide a safe and familiar environment to inhibit fear and confusion.
Some compelling reasons to explore dementia home care services include:
- Familiarity
- Safety
- Personalized care
- Stimulating activities
- Family support
Familiarity
People suffering from dementia are often easily confused which makes continuing to live in a familiar home setting a significant advantage. Removing a dementia patient from their home roots in an already strange and perplexing situation typically only serves to exacerbate negative outcomes. A familiar home environment is also good for stimulating and preserving memory association.
While remaining at home is ideal, some level of assistance and support is needed to make the situation safe and manageable. Home caregivers can provide that much needed balance and support for everyone involved.
Safety
Wandering is a very common symptom of dementia. When not monitored or supervised, individuals with dementia can easily wander outside and become lost, not being able to remember why they even came outside in the first place. Home caregivers can help keep a close eye on your loved one when you are not able to. Wearable tracking devices can also bring peace of mind to prevent wandering off and getting lost.
Personalized Care
Since dementia can have different effects on different people, it is important to enlist dementia care assistance that is adaptable and customizable to the changing situation. Dementia home care services can be personalized to assist with anything from symptom management to assistance with daily tasks and activities.
The one-on-one attention offered by home caregivers is also ideal to ensure your loved one is getting the focused attention they need. Caregivers can implement a wide range of mentally stimulating tasks and activities to help keep the mind sharp and active.
Stimulating Activities
There is a variety of techniques and approaches that can be used to stimulate the brain, improve memory, and exercise critical thinking skills. Some mentally stimulating activities that can be employed include:
- Games and puzzles
- Music therapy
- Animal therapy
- Talking about past memories
- Physical exercise
- Supervised outdoor excursions
- Reading
- Arts & crafts
- Social interaction
Many people don’t realize it, but the simple act of conversation is an excellent way to stimulate the mind and keep the brain working. Activities can be catered to specific needs and preferences.
Family Support
Dementia can be incredibly stressful on the family of the affected individual. Dementia care services delivered by home caregivers can be a big help to ease the strain and reduce the burden on family members. Dementia care services can be scheduled as often as needed and tailored and adapted to an ever-changing, dynamic situation.
