It can be challenging to determine the needs of a dementia patient, as symptoms and progression are unique to each individual. However, at some point, most seniors with dementia will need 24-hour home care. The CDC estimates that 5.8 million American adults, 580,000 in Florida, are affected by Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia illnesses. This is a sizable population living with dementia and trying to manage its numerous and complex symptoms.
SIGNS THAT IT’S TIME FOR 24-HOUR CARE
Most seniors prefer to remain in their homes for as long as possible. However, dementia and its many symptoms can make this incredibly dangerous for the patient, especially in its latter stages. Dementia and any other cognitive decline in the elderly make it very difficult to maintain executive function. Also, 60% of dementia patients tend to wander, which can lead to falls and unsafe conditions.
There are a number of signs that point to progressive cognitive decline resulting in a need for 24-hour care. Here are some of the most common:
- Safety becomes an issue due to wandering, falls, and balance concerns.
- They exhibit unhealthy living conditions, such as expired food piling up, bills going unpaid, lack of general hygiene, or other unsafe living conditions.
- They have trouble managing their medications and as a result, aren’t getting the benefits of taking them.
- They have trouble doing routine, everyday tasks.
- They show marked personality or behavior changes.
THE BENEFITS OF 24-HOUR CARE FOR AGE AND MEMORY LOSS
For seniors suffering from age and memory loss symptoms, 24-hour care can help. This kind of care puts a professional caregiver in the home to assist aging seniors around the clock. This level of care ensures that they receive help with everything from light household chores to managing medication, meal preparation, and handle any emergencies that might arise.
There are many benefits to hiring a 24-hour caregiver to help manage the symptoms of dementia and cognitive decline due to age and memory loss. Some of these include:
- Allowing aging seniors to enjoy living in their own home, which is their usual preference.
- Reduction in the danger of falls and safety hazards as caregivers help seniors get in and out of bed, assist with bathing, and safely negotiate stairs.
- Assistance in daily living activities, such as dressing, eating, drinking, and walking.
- Giving respite to familial caregivers who also need the opportunity to take care of themselves
The difficulties of modern life with age and memory loss may seem tremendous, but 24-hour home care can help.
HOW AN AT HOME CAREGIVER CAN HELP
The benefits offered to seniors struggling with dementia or other memory problems by a professional caregiver are numerous. 24-hour care ensures that a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or home health aide (HHA) is with your beloved family member every step of the way. At Collier Home Care, we match our clients with compassionate caregivers who excel in providing the highest quality care to seniors with dementia.
We recognize what a stressful time this can be, and as a nurse registry, we’ll work with you to ensure your at home caregiver is the right fit for your loved one.
Contact Collier Home Care today.