Navigating Alzheimer’s and Dementia Home Care
When you have a loved one who is living with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, determining how best to help and care for them can be a challenge. You want them to remain safe while also being able to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
At Village Caregiving, we understand the many emotions you may be feeling as you navigate caring for your loved one. As the largest privately owned home care company in the United States, we’ve provided compassionate assistance for thousands of families whose loved ones require care.
What Does Alzheimer’s and Dementia Home Care Involve?
Dementia home care includes daily support and non-medical help for someone living with dementia. Caregivers from Village Caregiving can help with light housekeeping, such as washing dishes, vacuuming or doing the laundry. Our caregivers also provide stimulating companionship and can help your loved one participate in recreational activities like visiting a nearby park or enjoying a favorite hobby.
A personalized care plan can also include assistance with everyday hygiene necessities, like bathing, toileting and dressing. Dementia home care can help improve your loved one’s quality of life.
Benefits of In-Home Care for Someone With Alzheimer’s or Dementia
Here are some of the many benefits in-home care for Alzheimer’s and dementia can offer for your loved one.
1. Maintain the Comfort and Familiarity of Home
For individuals living with dementia, remaining within the familiarity of their home environment can significantly enhance their quality of life. It can be easier for them to maintain some of their independence since they know where things are and how things work, and being in their own home also promotes a sense of comfort and safety. They have familiar scenery and nearby locations outside the home as well. This creates an important foundation for those living with Alzheimer’s, as it facilitates a reliable and structured support system.
Some other ways in-home care can add comfort and familiarity include more emotional support, which helps to reduce loneliness and anxiety and increase flexibility in care plans and schedules. For example, you can have a caregiver with your loved one for just a few hours each day or 24/7. A customizable care option benefits family members and your loved one.
2. Develop a Personalized Care Plan
In-home care makes it easy to customize care specifically for your loved one. Personalized care plans are tailored to the individual’s medical, social and physical needs, offering services aligned to their unique situation. With such a targeted approach, seniors receive the care best suited to them so they can get the most out of their home care plan.
You can expect the following when creating a personalized plan with us at Village Caregiving:
- We’ll sit down with you and your loved one to discuss the best approach for care.
- You’ll discuss essential details about your loved ones’ specific needs.
- Together, we’ll outline the extent of family participation.
3. Receive Emotional Support and Companionship
In-home caregivers can offer support and help with daily tasks, but they can also provide companionship. Whether it’s getting your loved one’s favorite ice cream, taking a walk, participating in a favorite activity or just chatting, the companionship of our compassionate caregivers can provide emotional support for your loved one, improving their overall sense of well-being and helping them maintain cognitive function.
People with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia will experience bouts of memory loss, confusion and general cognitive challenges. In-home care creates a stimulating and caring environment where the individual feels supported and engaged.
4. Establish Healthy and Familiar Routines
Remaining in a routine is vital for individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Being at home where they’ve created a routine allows them to feel more secure. Continuing a routine at home also helps people living with dementia have more confidence and a sense of dignity.
Emotional Well-Being and In-Home Care
Individuals who live with Alzheimer’s may experience various emotions, especially as the dementia progresses. When they’re at home, you and the caregiver can provide enriching support to help ease these feelings and assist your loved one in feeling more reassured and empowered. Whether through words or deeds, having seniors close during this time allows family and those in your support circle to:
- Give encouragement and praise.
- Involve them in as many activities as possible.
- Assist them in realizing their purpose and value.
Safety Considerations for Those With Dementia
In-home care can be an enriching and safe journey for people living with dementia and their families if there’s adequate support and preparation, which includes making sure the home is as free as possible from potential hazards. Some guidelines to keep in mind include:
- Brightly marking stairways for better visibility.
- Creating contrast between walls and floors with solid colors and avoiding patterns.
- Turning the water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding.
- Minimizing the use of mirrors.
- Removing rugs to reduce tripping hazards.
- Padding sharp corners and furniture edges.
Support for Caregivers
Caregivers play an essential role when it comes to caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s.
From managing the household to ensuring your loved one is well cared for, taking on these tasks alone can be challenging. Practicing self-care is beneficial for both you and your loved one. In-home respite care can be a safe and affordable option so that you can take a break and help prevent burnout.
Compassionate Home Care Services From Village Caregiving
Caring for loved ones who are living with dementia can be a fulfilling journey of hope and resilience. When it’s time for you to step back due to work or other commitments, the best you can do is give your loved one the care they deserve.
At Village Caregiving, caring is our passion. We take our responsibilities to heart and are proud of our family caregivers who go above and beyond every day. To discuss your options with us, fill out our online form. You can also find the Village Caregiving office near you for more information.