Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating illness that affects more than six million Americans. The medical community is working hard to find new treatments and advances toward conquering this disease. Yet, until a cure is found, families must continue to seek solutions for helping their affected loved ones live as safely, happily and comfortably as possible. In-home health care and home care assistance are options to consider for seniors living with Alzheimer’s.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. It’s a slowly progressive brain disease. The hallmark indicator of Alzheimer’s is the accumulation of plaques and tangles of certain proteins around neurons in the brain. These changes cause the death of neurons and damage to brain tissue.
What are the symptoms?
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, early symptoms often include difficulty remembering recent conversations, names or events, as well as apathy and depression. Later symptoms include impaired communication, disorientation and confusion, poor judgment, behavioral changes and, ultimately, difficulty speaking, swallowing and walking.
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s
Studies have consistently shown that proactive management of Alzheimer’s and other dementias can improve the quality of life of affected individuals and their caregivers.
In addition to pursuing medical interventions and treatment options, proactive management includes keeping the patient as engaged in life as possible. For example, it’s important that affected individuals continue to participate in activities that are meaningful to them and that bring a sense of purpose to their lives. Having opportunities to connect and remain in relationship with others and maintaining a sense of identity are also healthy steps.
While many families try to shoulder caring for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s, family caregivers may become physically and emotionally exhausted as the patient’s needs progress. It’s OK to seek help, and home care may be a good option to consider.
Kadan Homecare’s compassionate caregivers serve Alzheimer’s and dementia patients with a high level of skilled nursing and advanced care. We can support those living with Alzheimer’s by providing:
- Secure transportation that helps them stay connected to others and outside activities
- Medication oversight and compliance with necessary medication schedules
- Meaningful and consistent caregiver relationships that help combat loneliness and depression
- Assistance with daily needs such as bathing, dressing and eating
For more information or to talk with our team about care at home for seniors living with Alzheimer’s in the Atlanta area, call 770-396-8997 or email info@kadan.org.
