The importance of ensuring that your loved one with dementia receives the right care

If a loved one is experiencing cognitive decline, it is important to make sure that they are getting the best option for caring for dementia patients at home. Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia can prevent patients from safely living on their own. 

What is dementia? 

Dementia is an overall disease that describes the decline in a person's memory, language and other thinking abilities that can interfere with everyday life. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's Disease - this disease affects a person's memory, language and behavior. 

The World Health Organization reported that 50 million people worldwide have dementia. It is not unheard of for people with dementia to wander and get lost, be unable to drive a car safely and/or become unable to manage their finances. 

Caring for dementia patients at home

Treatment can reduce the symptoms of dementia

Some medications can reduce the symptoms of various forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer's Disease. While they do not directly treat the condition itself, they can alter patients' brain chemistry in ways that improve cognitive functioning. 

In some cases, these medications can allow patients to have a much higher level of functioning than otherwise. Here are a few examples of the treatments that you should ask your aging parent's doctor about:

• Neuroprotective medications. These medications are designed to prevent damage to brain cells, which could make it possible for your loved one to live a relatively independent life for longer than they would be able to otherwise.
• Medications that help to manage behavioral issues. Some medications can treat specific behavioral and psychiatric problems that are caused by dementia. For instance, antipsychotic medications can be used to manage paranoia and hallucinations, anti-anxiety drugs can reduce agitation, and antidepressants can produce improvements in mood.
• Medications that increase the level of Acetylcholinesterase. These medications are designed to improve memory, which can make it easier for people with dementia to perform day to day tasks. They also are able to make it easier for people with dementia to learn new information.

Develop a daily routine

Another tip for caring for dementia patients at home is by creating a daily routine. Establishing a regular schedule can help orientate people with dementia. If possible, try to keep all activities at a specific time like waking up, breakfast, bathing, and bedtime. 

As much as possible, try to help involve your loved one in everyday activities. This helps them know what to expect, feel less anxious and have less aggressive behaviors. 

Home help for the elderly can keep your loved one safe

While many people assume that the only way to care for an older person with dementia is to arrange nursing home care, this is not the case. People with Alzheimer's Disease can often remain home and receive in-home assistance from a home health aide. 

An in-home caregiver can help to ensure that your loved one bathes every day, eats appropriately, maintains their home, and does not wander off. These professionals know how to care and keep them calm. 

The best option for caring for dementia patients at home

Find out more about home care for the elderly with dementia by contacting the team at Akkase Home Health Care today.