Almost 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Memory loss from dementia can bring a host of challenges—not just for individuals, but for whole families. In fact, 74% of caregivers feel concerned about their own health as a result of the demands they’re dealing with, the Alzheimer’s Association reports. Let’s walk through some of the main challenges your loved one might be experiencing, and how companion care can help keep them safe and content while bringing you peace of mind.
Forgetting routine tasks like paying bills
A loved one with dementia may begin having difficulty handling activities of daily living. Perhaps they used to be a stickler for paying bills on time, but now, they’re getting notices from the power company for late payment. Memory issues might be making it hard to remember dates, and to recall whether they’ve completed a task.
Neglecting household chores or personal care
Memory loss may also cause people to forget to take important medications. Many elderly people even forget to drink enough water, leading to dehydration. If your loved one seems confused about whether they’ve taken their daily medication yet, it might be time for memory care. People with dementia may also begin forgetting to keep up with bathing and personal grooming, leading to changes in appearance. You might also notice dishes, expired food, or dust piling up in the home.
Forgetting to turn off appliances
If your loved one is forgetting to turn off the stove or other appliances, it’s time for additional care. Having supervision at home will help ensure their safety. Memory care can provide daily and overnight safety supervision when needed.
Increased confusion
Your loved one may begin to forget dates, not recognize their own household items, or struggle to focus on activities. If they’re still driving, they might grow confused about where they are at times (or the best way to get home). Many people with dementia also become prone to wandering as the disease progresses.
Changing moods
People with dementia often display behavior changes, like increased anger or paranoia. Some become restless, which sometimes manifests as shadowing or repetitive behaviors like hand-wringing. Sleep patterns may also shift, according to the National Council on Aging.
Avoiding social interactions
Confusion or emotional fluctuations can make social situations feel more challenging for people with dementia. Their confidence in their ability to navigate conversations may decrease, leading them to avoid social settings. They might also start forgetting names and faces, creating feelings of awkwardness in social interactions.
Look for changes in each of these areas. If your loved one used to have a bubbly or carefree personality but has become reclusive, agitated, or anxious that could signal the need for memory care, for instance.
Memory care can help instill a sense of calm for loved ones with dementia. Moreover, companion care can provide medication reminders and appropriate mental stimulation for those dealing with memory loss. Home care professionals have specialized knowledge in how to sensitively support people with dementia. In short, an in-home care aide can enhance your loved one’s safety while enriching their quality of life.
Call us to schedule a free nurse consultation. A skilled professional will be happy to talk with you about how elder care can help meet your loved one’s needs.
