This is the second blog in our series of three
This is about knowing when to choose and hire a professional caregiver to come in, or live in, the home.
At the start of the disease, many families will be unsure of when to hire a caregiver. This is especially if their loved-one with Alzheimer’s disease is, on the whole, still functioning fine day-to-day. However, when a person’s memory slowly degenerates, some regular chores become dangerous. Such as cooking or driving (think, casserole in the oven on high overnight, and forgetting what a yield sign means).
Early Stage Dementia
Ideally, hiring an in-home caregiver from the start of the disease (early dementia). This is a stage where home is still the best place for your loved one to be and extremely helpful. A caregiver will develop and carry out a daily routine, and can gradually intensify care as the loved one advances in stages. Also, the loved one can start developing a relationship with outside caregivers. They can trust and rely on individuals that you’ve put in charge, for help. During the day, when you’re not able to be there, a caregiver can manage medications. They can help with transportation, create a sense of familiarity through activities and the environment. Also help with communication, and prevent accidents and handle emergencies. Only a few hours a day may be needed, and these hours can be customized to fit the lifestyle of the person with the disease and other family members.
Middle Stage To Late Stage Dementia
As the loved-one’s disease progresses (middle to late stage dementia). If they still feel more comfortable living at home, surrounded by family and familiarity, then a live-in caregiver can be your saving grace. You can depend on them every moment of the day. Helping with physical care (lifting, bathing, feeding, walking). Emotional care (keeping company, giving attention, kind physical touch like hand massages and hugs). And cognitive care (engaging them, conversing with them, calming and modifying behaviour).
People Who Can Help
Alzheimer’s dementia creates a different situation for every family. Some people with dementia may wander, have severe sleep problems, and become agitated. While others may be calm, unruffled and easy to manage, even if their communication is limited and their time and space cognition has degenerated. Personalized Dementia Solutions is able to come in and observe the behaviour and needs of your loved one with Alzheimer’s. They can help you with recommendations for the day to day and also help you with questions regarding hiring an outside caregiver.
Start the conversation with your loved one with mild Alzheimer’s disease. Understand their needs and hopes for the future so that you will be ready when it is time for outside help.
Karen 🙂
Karen Tyrell, CDP
Personalized Dementia Solutions
Personalized Dementia Solutions
