WHAT IS DEMENTIA?
Dementia is not a disease, it’s actually a term that represents a wide range of symptoms regarding a decline in thinking skills and memory. This declination often reduces a person’s ability to successfully perform activities of daily living. 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases are brought on by Alzheimer’s disease. The second most common form is vascular dementia which tends to occur after suffering a stroke. Thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies can also be responsible for symptoms associated with dementia, but these are reversible.
THE SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA
The symptoms of dementia can greatly vary, but significant impairment of at least two of the following core mental functions puts the person in consideration for a diagnosis of dementia:
- Memory
- Language and communication
- Judgement and reasoning
- Ability to pay attention and focus
- Visual perception
Many types of dementia begin with minimal symptoms, but progressively get worse. Do not ignore memory difficulties or other thinking skills in yourself or a loved one! Visit your physician to explore the symptoms. Early diagnosis of dementia allows a person to get maximum benefits from current treatments.
THEN WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?
Alzheimer’s Disease brings about the symptoms of dementia and does not have a current cure. There is a greater risk factor for the onset of Alzheimer’s as age increases with the majority of cases affecting those over 65. Memory loss is mild in the early stages, but progressively worsens to when a person loses the ability to carry on simple conversation or respond to their surroundings. Alzheimer’s Disease is the 6th leading cause of death among Americans. Though the disease is currently incurable, there are treatments available that can improve the quality of life by temporarily slowing the worsening of dementia symptoms.
WHAT KIND OF ASSISTANCE DOES THE DEMENTIA/ALZHEIMER PATIENTS HOME CARE SUPPORT PROGRAM PROVIDE?
COMPASSIONATE COMPANIONSHIP
As familiarity is lost by a dementia patient, companionship becomes more and more important. Our caregiver will be there to keep the patient calm and guide them through a very difficult process.
MEAL PREPARATION AND ASSISTANCE WITH FEEDING
People with Alzheimer’s disease may have increased difficulty with eating. Our caregivers can assist with making meal time less stressful, safer, and more enjoyable.
PERSONAL CARE
With many debilitating diseases, the simplest tasks become the most difficult, such as bathing and dressing can become extremely difficult with the onset of dementia. Our highly experienced caregivers assist with these daily activities.
MEDICATION REMINDERS
One of the most important aspects of dementia care is to make sure that the patient regularly takes all necessary medications. The caregiver will be familiarized with the medication schedule to make sure that timely reminders are given.
LIGHT HOUSEKEEPING
With the onset and progressive worsening of dementia symptoms, the cleanliness of the patient’s house will drastically decrease. Our caregivers can do some light housekeeping including vacuuming and dusting to keep the home clean and safe.
GROCERY SHOPPING
Our caregivers can go shopping based on a list for a dementia patient’s diet. Once a list of acceptable ingredients has been established, the caregiver can make sure that all of the necessary items are in stock in the patient’s home.
ASSIST WITH TRANSFERS
Many dementia patients need help getting from their bed to a wheelchair, or from a wheelchair to a stationary chair. Our caregivers are highly trained in the use of transfer belts and/or hydraulic lifts.
ENCOURAGE ACTIVITIES
It’s important for Alzheimer patients to keep occupied. Our caregivers will keep them engaged with things that they like to do. Dementia/Alzheimer’s patients require a very special level of care. Horizon Care Services’ Home Care Support Program for Dementia/Alzheimer patients can supply you with the best and most experienced caregivers to assist with this debilitating disease. Call us at 877-227-3890 and ask for guidance today.