There has been an assumption that once someone received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of progressive dementia, the only option was nursing home care. After all, it is not possible for someone with cognitive decline to continue safely living at home, particularly when they live alone – or is it?
Statistics demand the necessity for all of us to think this through for the family we love, and maybe even for ourselves one day. Approximately 14 million older adults are currently living at home alone – 33% with dementia, and 15% specifically with Alzheimer’s disease. Even more concerning, half of this population not only lives alone, but has no identified caregiver.
There are numerous key aspects of concern for a senior who lives alone with dementia:
- The skill to take care of activities of daily living on their own, such as personal hygiene, meals, household management, and problem-solving
- A heightened risk to senior scams and exploitation
- The isolation that stems from a fear of unfamiliar situations and places as confusion increases
However, we also recognize that safely living at home throughout aging for someone with Alzheimer’s allows for a wealth of benefits, such as:
- The comfort of familiar surroundings and belongings, which provides stability
- The potential to help keep regular routines, making life navigation easier
- Self-identity that comes through preserving a sense of belonging
One option that is ideal for a great many is bringing in an expertly trained dementia caregiver to provide the perfect amount of support to foster as much independence and freedom as possible, while making sure of safety and wellbeing.
It’s necessary to note that the earlier you’re able to bring in support for someone with dementia, the better. Even during the very earliest stages of the disease, the progression can occur quickly, at which time the transition to care would have to take place immediately. By starting slowly with just a small amount of assistance, perhaps with meals, housework, and laundry, you can then build up to a higher level of care seamlessly as needed.
At Golden Harmony Home Care, providing in-home care to Raleigh, NC and the surrounding area, we formulate a customized plan of care that is reviewed and adjusted as needed ongoing – so whether the need is for just a couple of hours each week of assistance, or full-time, 24-hour care, we can help older adults continue to live at home for a lifetime.
Our fully trained dementia care team can ensure comfort and safety throughout each stage of the condition, easing challenges such as:
• Wandering
• Aggression
• Agitation
• Frustration
• Cognitive challenges
• And more
Our care providers offer the mental stimulation, social interaction, and encouragement to remain physically active which all lead to a better quality of life. We provide personalized in-home care to Raleigh, NC and the surrounding area. Contact us at 919-426-7522 for a complimentary consultation to learn more about how we can help someone you love continue to live where it’s most comfortable – at home – for a lifetime.