Aging is often difficult enough, but then adding in a progressive illness like dementia makes everything that much more complicated. Families may feel overwhelmed as they learn how to help seniors diagnosed with dementia. Alzheimer’s care providers offer valuable education and hands-on assistance to help families and seniors adjust to this new diagnosis.
What Exactly Is Dementia?
There are actually many different conditions included under the diagnosis of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, which is itself a type of dementia. Dementia involves declining cognitive abilities that have an impact on a person’s daily life. The cognitive decline may happen quickly or slowly, but it does progress over time and there is currently no cure. Each type of dementia may create different challenges for the people who have these conditions, which is why support is so important for everyone involved.
Common Symptoms of Dementia
Some of the symptoms of dementia, especially early on, include memory loss and forgetfulness. The memory issues are more likely to impact recent events, leaving patients able to remember events in the past much more clearly. People with dementia often have significant trouble with daily tasks, like cooking or taking a bath. And at some point, many people with dementia have trouble with feeling agitated, wanting to withdraw from the people around them, and other personality changes.
Living with Dementia
Living with dementia is not always easy, especially for the people who care about the person with dementia. This is a medical condition, and not something that the person is doing deliberately. Unfortunately, sometimes the reality of life with dementia can feel like a personal attack and family members may experience grief. Dementia patients are often frustrated as they experience changes in how their brains work, so having experienced home care professionals available can be a huge help.
Building a Support System
Family members and dementia patients need a strong support system. That might consist of friends and family members who can be there to help in big and small ways, even just offering emotional support at times. It’s also a good idea to include Alzheimer’s care services early on in the diagnosis of dementia. These professional caregivers understand dementia and the needs of dementia patients, so they offer a ton of valuable insight.
Creating a Safe Environment at Home
One of the most important concerns for dementia patients is safety. Alzheimer’s care providers can recommend home modifications and safety changes that can make life both easier and safer for dementia patients. They can also offer assistance with daily routines, allowing dementia patients to maintain as much independence as possible while also having the support they need to stay safe and comfortable.
Life with dementia is a difficult situation and Alzheimer’s care services can provide the balanced care that families need. With the right support, seniors with dementia can age in place for a longer period of time than they might have thought was possible. This allows them to stay in familiar surroundings, around the people they love, for a lot longer. That kind of support can be incredibly helpful as dementia continues to progress.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Alzheimer’s care in Elizabeth, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Adult Alternative Home Care today. (888) 664-1769
- What Do Families Need to Know About Dementia? - February 24, 2025
- The Reality of Living with Heart Disease - February 11, 2025
- Let’s Talk About Vision Care and Support - February 11, 2025
