How to Know When It's Time for Alzheimer's and Dementia Care
Alzheimer's and dementia are terrible conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. As these diseases progress, they blur the memories of those affected, causing cognitive impairment and emotional distress for both the sufferers and their loved ones.
Understanding the disease's different forms and the progression of symptoms is essential for caregivers to navigate the challenges of caring for someone with dementia. Safety fears and the pursuit of quality care can also make this journey more challenging, but caregivers with the proper knowledge and understanding can make informed decisions to ensure their loved one's well-being.
Comfort Keepers in San Tan Valley, AZ, brings peace of mind to families on the journey through memory loss. Our compassionate caregivers and Alzheimer's and dementia care services make home a safe and comfortable environment for those with these diseases and cognitive decline.
Understanding Alzheimer's & Dementia and Common Forms
Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that affects memory and cognitive abilities. Dementia refers to a particular group of medical conditions that affect thinking, behavior, and everyday activities because of brain injuries or diseases.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It occurs due to abnormalities in the brain, such as amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles.
Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia, which occurs after a stroke. It happens when the blood supply to the brain is reduced, leading to problems with memory, reasoning, planning, judgment, and other thought processes.
Another notable type is Lewy body dementia, which is distinguished by abnormal protein deposits in the brain called Lewy bodies. These deposits affect chemicals in the brain that can lead to problems with thinking, movement, behavior, and mood.
Frontotemporal dementia, which affects the front and sides of the brain (the frontal and temporal lobes), encompasses a range of disorders that typically lead to changes in personality, behavior, and language.
Stages of Dementia and Symptoms to Look Out For
Dementia progresses in stages, which can help caregivers and families understand the level of care needed. These stages are generally categorized as early, middle, or late-stage dementia.
In the early stages, symptoms might be mild, including forgetfulness, losing track of time, and confusion in familiar places.
As dementia progresses to the middle stage, symptoms become more pronounced. Patients may forget recent events and people's names, become confused in a familiar environment, or have increasing difficulty with communication.
By the late stage, individuals with dementia may become unaware of the time and place, have difficulty recognizing relatives and friends, require assistance with daily living, and display behavioral changes that could include wandering and repeated questioning.
Safety Measures for Individuals with Dementia
Safety is a paramount concern for individuals with dementia. As memory and judgment decline, the risk of accidents and injuries in the home increases. If you believe your loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia needs help ensuring their safety at home, this is a sign that professional care is needed.
Comfort Keepers caregivers prioritize safety by implementing tailored safety tips, such as:
Help with installing grab bars in crucial areas to prevent falls.
Securing rugs and clearing walkways to minimize tripping hazards.
Establishing a routine to provide a sense of stability.
Utilizing locks on cabinets that contain hazardous materials.
These measures ensure a safer living environment, helping to reduce the risk of injuries and providing peace of mind for family members.
Quality of Care and Peace of Mind for Family Caregivers
Comfort Keepers provides professional Alzheimer’s and dementia care services in San Tan Valley, Arizona, focusing on preserving the quality of life for those affected. Our caregivers are trained in dementia care to support the tasks of daily life and assist with memory care. We offer services that range from light housekeeping to personalized, one-on-one companion care. The aim is to enhance daily living and well-being by encouraging engagement, ensuring safety, and fostering a positive environment.
For families, choosing Comfort Keepers means making life decisions for loved ones with confidence. Knowing that professional care providers are attending to the needs of their loved ones with dementia brings peace of mind.
Through respite care, our support extends to family caregivers, giving them time to rest and recharge while knowing their loved ones are in good hands.
Dedicated Alzheimer's and Dementia Care from Comfort Keepers in San Tan Valley, AZ
Comfort Keepers in San Tan Valley, AZ, is dedicated to providing specialized Alzheimer's and dementia care. Our caregivers are trained to understand the unique needs of individuals with cognitive impairment and are skilled in creating a safe and supportive environment.
Our care programs are tailored to address the various stages of dementia, ensuring that each individual receives personalized care. From assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation to medication reminders and companionship, our caregivers provide the necessary support.
In addition to helping with physical needs, our caregivers engage individuals with dementia in mentally stimulating activities. This can include reminiscing conversations, puzzles, art therapy, and other activities that help maintain cognitive function and improve quality of life.
We understand that the progression of Alzheimer's and dementia can be challenging for both the individual and their family. That's why our services extend beyond just direct care. We also offer support and education for family members, helping them navigate through the complexities of the disease.
We aim to enable individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia to live with dignity and independence for as long as possible. Our caregivers build strong relationships with those in their care, learning their preferences and needs to provide the highest level of care and comfort.
If you have noticed your loved one's abilities declining and symptoms like memory loss taking hold, it could be time for Alzheimer's and dementia care. Our compassionate care team can assist families in making these difficult decisions through free in-home care assessments. Contact us today to learn more, and know on this journey, you are never alone.
