When a family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, or any other form of dementia, it can be incredibly difficult, not just for them but for everyone around them too. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s and this is a progressive disorder, so it will slowly begin to affect someone’s memory, decision-making abilities and general behaviour. As the symptoms of Alzheimer’s begin to worsen, those suffering are unable to live alone and they will need constant support.
There often comes a time when people feel as though the only option they have is to move their loved one into a residential care home because their Alzheimer’s has become too difficult for them to manage alone, however, this isn’t the only option available. These days, care agencies provide a number of at-home care services that will enable your family member to stay in a familiar surrounding, but you won’t have the sole responsibility of looking after them.
If you’re wondering what Alzheimer’s care services involve, below we have looked into some of the different ways a care agency will be able to help.
Personal care services
As your loved one becomes unable to properly care for themselves, a carer will be able to provide a number of personal care services to them at home which will be both discrete and professional. They can help with things such as dressing and undressing, washing and bathing, and also general grooming, so your loved one will continue to look and feel their best.
Agencies will be able to adapt their personal care and Alzheimer’s care services to meet the needs of both you and your family member helping as much or as little as needed. They will always ensure that your loved one is treated with the utmost respect and receives support in a dignified manner, so you won’t need to worry at all in this regard.
Medical care services
Often, a big part of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s will be providing them with the medical support that they need and a carer will be able to help with things like the administration of medication. Whilst there isn’t a cure for Alzheimer’s lots of people will take medication to slow its progression and help them cope with the symptoms, so it is essential that this is taken.
In addition to this, a carer will also be able to monitor food and fluid intake too, ensuring that your family member is maintaining a healthy weight and not at risk of common problems like urinary tract infections. You can rest assured knowing that carers are fully trained to be able to provide this type of medical care to their patients.
Domestic care services
Sometimes, your loved one will just need support with everyday tasks and if you don’t have time to help with these yourself, a carer will be able to step in. Household and domestic care services are very common for patients with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia who are struggling with simple things such as keeping their house clean.
Lots of care agencies will offer light domestic cleaning services and they can help your family member stay on top of daily tasks. They will even be able to help with things such as shopping for weekly groceries, meal planning and food preparation too. Again, carers can do as much or as little as is required in this regard.
Companionship care services
This can be easy to overlook, but if your loved one lives alone then, arguably, this is one of the most important Alzheimer’s care services that can be provided to them. Companionship care services provide your loved one with someone they can talk to, which can be incredibly effective in preventing social isolation, loneliness and even depression.
Whilst it is incredibly simple, this particular care service will make being at home much more enjoyable for your family member and it will really help with their general wellbeing. Many will use this service even when their loved one doesn’t yet require any of the other services mentioned above and it can be a brilliant way for everyone to get used to home care.
Arranging Alzheimer’s care services for a loved one
It is fair to say that whilst moving a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease into a residential care home may seem like your only option, if you think it would be beneficial for them to stay at home then there are lots of services available that can help you care for them. You don’t have to do things alone and an agency can provide you with the care and support both you and your loved one need during this time.
If you’re interested in Alzheimer’s care services and you’d like to speak with someone about getting some help with your family member, please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Beloved Homecare. Since 2015, we have been providing outstanding home care services to people in Trafford and the surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on helping our clients live independently within the comfort and familiarity of their own home, and we will gladly provide you with the professional home care services you’re looking for.