Alzheimer’s and Assisted Living for Seniors

Seniors and Alzheimers  |  November 7, 2017

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia or other memory loss illnesses can lead to a series of questions and concerns. Many people are familiar with the diseases, but lack awareness in coping or living with it. In addition to understanding what to expect if Alzheimer’s disease effects your family, it is important to understand the methods of home health care that are available for your senior loved one.

Home health care is available for families and seniors who live with these illnesses. The assistance of these care providers can make the transition much easier and can also help the senior and their family better understand what changes to expect. If your senior loved one has been given a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, you should know the warning signs and how to talk to your senior about what is happening.

Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Poor Judgement

Because dementia has a significant effect on cognitive thinking, aging seniors with the disease may sometimes exhibit poor decision making or judgement. They may begin to neglect daily hygiene practices, talk about things that don’t make sense, or make unsound financial choices.

Memory Loss

If your senior loved one begins to forget names of family members or simple items such as a cup, hairbrush or other items used daily, they could have Alzheimer’s disease. It is common for people of any age to forget something from time to time, but these occurrences would take place more often and typically become worse and more frequent over time.

Talking About Alzheimer’s Disease

It can be challenging to discuss the disease with your senior loved one. The need to discuss the issue will arise and sometimes, family members are at a loss for what to say. Here are a few tips to help the conversation go smoothly:

• Reassure your loved one: make sure to reiterate that you are there for them and will continue to help them with any changes they endure. A home health care provider can help to comfort the elderly loved one and reassure them that they won’t face this alone.

• Listen to Your Senior Loved One: You want to be attentive to the concerns and answer any questions your loved one may have. This shows them that you care and their needs and wants are priority during this time of change.

• Be Upfront and Honest: don’t attempt to hide the significance of the disease and the impact it will have on their life. When the time comes, and they can’t drive, cook or do other everyday things, tell them so and let them know what arrangements are being made to accommodate these changes.

If you would like to talk to one of our home health care representatives about this type of care for your loved one, contact us today! Make sure you ask about our free in-home evaluation, where one of our experts comes to your home and makes an assessment for a custom care plan your elderly loved one will benefit from the most.

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