People with dementia need seven signs at home care

Home care for dementia helps people with amnesia stay safe, comfortable and independent in the familiar environment. Whether support is family or professional caregiver, the goal is to allow people with dementia to live in their family homes instead of nursing homes for as long as possible.

Home dementia care can appear different for different families. Some people may live alone and go with regular check-in from experts in the dementia care community throughout the week. Others may require daily visits from Alzheimer's Home Care Dementia Services. Sometimes paid caregivers come to your home every day, or your unpaid loved ones provide home care 24/7.

1. They struggle with their daily work

Easy daily routines, such as dressing, brushing teeth, and making sandwiches, can be overwhelming and difficult for people with dementia. You may find yourself wearing the same clothes for days or forgetting to take a bath. Unprofessionally trained “family, family, friends, neighbors, etc.) can provide support with hygiene, diet and other basic needs.

2. They get lost or wander

People with dementia may forget where they are, even in close proximity. They may not know how to leave and return. A short walk to your mailbox can lead to wandering and getting lost. Home care helps prevent wandering and keep them safe.

3. They fall at home or face safety risks

As dementia progresses, balance and adjustment often deteriorate. They may trip over the rug, fall onto the stairs, or forget how to turn off the stove. Overlooked safety hazards can lead to serious or fatal injuries. Home caregivers can create a safer environment and prevent accidents.

4. They miss meals, skip dosages, forget to pay bills

As dementia worsens, it is common to forget to eat, take prescription medication, and pay bills. This can lead to weight loss, increased risk of disease, or unpaid utilities. Home caregivers can give subtle reminders, gentle nudges, or take over these tasks and get things on track.

5. They look unstable, but easily upset

Dementia can cause mood swings and sudden changes in behavior. They may pace, scream, or assault for no obvious reason. Anger and aggression can be difficult for family members or loved ones to handle. Bringing trained professionals can help reduce the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia at home and reduce stress for caregivers.

6. They withdraw from social activities

People with dementia may stop seeing friends or attend family gatherings. They may sit alone for a long time or lose interest in hobbies. Too often alone can lead to depression or worsen dementia symptoms. Home caregivers can provide dating and promote social connection.

7. Caregivers burn out

Caring for a loved one requires time, energy and patience. It can be overwhelming and tiring. Caregiver burnout is a common indication that additional help is needed. Home support can ease the burden on all involved and improve the quality of life.

Home care options

Home care services for people with dementia range from the occasional part-time aid on daily tasks to 24-hour medical care. As dementia progresses, more support may be required. Common options are:

Companion care provides conversation, errands, light housekeeping and meal preparation. This is perfect for people who are in the early stages of memory loss.Assistances in personal care will help bathe, dressing, grooming, and mobility as dementia symptoms become more pronounced and ADL becomes more challenging.Home Health Assistant (HHAS) provides personal care and basic health support, including drug reminders and vital sign monitoring.Skilled nursing care, such as home health nurses, provides medical care at home under the direction of a healthcare provider. This is perfect for people with more complex medical needs.Home At Home At Home focuses on the comfort and quality of life of dementia near the end of life by providing support to those living in dementia and their families.

Choosing the right level of care depends on each individual's needs and what informal home caregivers can reasonably manage on their own.

How to find a home health service

To find home care and support services in your area, visit the Find Dementia Care and Local Services page at Alzheimers.gov. This free, national tool connects with your local resources that provide daily support, long-term home care, residential care, hospice services and more.

Insurance coverage and costs

Medicare usually does not cover long-term home storage care for dementia (non-medical assistance for people in need of ADL help). Medicare may cover short-term skilled services (such as nursing or physical therapy) and hospice for late stage dementia when ordered by a healthcare professional.

Private health insurance generally does not cover storage care. However, if long-term care insurance is purchased prior to the diagnosis of dementia, the cost of home memory care may be covered depending on the insurance policy.

Medicaid can cover long-term home care through a national program for people with limited income and assets. Some states allow families to be paid for home care through programs such as Medicaid waiver or “cash or counseling.”

Contact your state's Medicaid office to find free services or information to cover the costs of home care for people with dementia.

summary

Home care can help people with dementia stay safe and comfortable in their homes. It can be awarded by family, friends, or paid caregivers. Some people need a little help. Others need care every hour each day. Burnout in caregivers is common. Beware of warning signs that you need more help or whether it's time for nursing homes. Free local and national services are available.