Alzheimer’s can be a terrible disease. But Alzheimer’s patients can live years, even over a decade, of an enjoyable, high-functioning life with the right care. But how do you care for Alzheimer’s patients at home?
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that accounts for 60% to 70% of all cases of dementia. The disease usually begins slowly, with anterograde amnesia (difficulty with short-term memory) often being the first symptom. However, Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, so it worsens over time. Eventually, Alzheimer’s patients can be expected to exhibit mood swings, disorientation, problems with language, loss of motivation, self-neglect, and occasionally even violent outbursts. The causes of Alzheimer’s disease are not clear and there is no known cure.
Discussing Alzheimer’s can be depressing because, frankly, it’s quite bleak. The end stages are never fun. Patients are usually diagnosed at the age of 65 or older. The disease progresses at different rates in different people, so each prognosis is different to each person. But depending on when they are diagnosed, typical life expectancy following diagnosis is between three and nine years. This means that Alzheimer’s patients often live years, and sometimes over a decade, of life that can be enjoyable, fun, and fulfilling. But they will need the right care to be able to do that.
Care Homes For Alzheimer’s Patients
Alzheimer’s patients can receive care in nursing homes, assisted living communities, and other senior living facilities. There are also care homes designed specifically for Alzheimer’s patients to live in and receive care. Many of these homes are great and some are not so great. But they all require an Alzheimer’s patient to move out of their current home and into a strange new place. That can exert an incredible toll on somebody whose short-term memory is starting to fail them. Many Alzheimer’s patients do better in familiar environments. But how do you care for Alzheimer’s patients at home?
How To Care For Alzheimer’s Patients At Home
Caring for Alzheimer’s patients at home starts right after diagnosis. Implementing simplified routines is key. Installing safety locks and labeling household items also often prove useful. Eating and swallowing can be difficult for Alzheimer’s patients, so you might have to puree food. You won’t be able to care for an Alzheimer’s patient at home all alone, though. That’s why you need the help of Executive Home Care. We can arrange for a caregiver to visit weekly, daily, or to even live in the same home as the Alzheimer’s patient. Our caregivers can provide companionship, homemaking services, and personal care.
Executive Home Care
To learn more about how to care for Alzheimer’s patients at home, please contact us via our website or call (888) 963-9133.