When a loved one is diagnosed with probable Alzheimer’s disease, families often find themselves wondering what they should do to help care for him or her. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, patients are usually capable of remaining in their current living situation, especially if they have a spouse or other caregiver living with them or visiting frequently. However, the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease progressively affect patients more as time goes on, so patients tend to require increasing care and supervision over time. Families are confronted with making decisions regarding the patient’s living arrangement as well as how his or her long term care will be carried out. Some Alzheimer’s patients move in with one of their adult children who can provide constant care, while others receive long term care in an Alzheimer’s care home.
Inevitably, as Alzheimer’s disease progresses, decisions regarding the care of your loved one will have to be made. Whether a patient is better off living in their own home, the home of a loving family member or a professional home environment depends on many factors: the extent of assistance the patient requires, special needs—such as dietary restrictions, which arrangement is more suitable to the patient and the family members in the household, is your loved one a wanderer and would they benefit from a secure environment, as well as factors unique to your situation.
Speaking with doctors and other professionals such as counselors can give you a better understanding of what is involved with caring for an Alzheimer’s patient in your home and help you determine the best option for your family. If your loved one will be moving into your home, you and any other caregivers in the household will likely need to assist him or her with activities such as bathing, getting dressed, using the restroom, providing meals and assisting with eating, to name a few. Many families prefer this option so that they can spend time with their loved one and know how he or she is doing at all times.
Living with family members is not a feasible option for all Alzheimer’s patients. Families cannot always assume the added responsibility because of scheduling, space, financial limitations, other responsibilities such as raising children, or an inability to provide the care that their loved one needs. Whatever the reason, the most viable option for many Alzheimer’s patients is to move into an assisted care home. Specialized Alzheimer’s care facilities provide the ideal solution for many patients and their families. Alzheimer’s care homes cater to the unique needs of Alzheimer’s patients, and employ personnel who understand the disease and are able to provide expert care to residents. Residents in such homes have the opportunity to interact with others, participate in activities such as gardening and enjoy entertainment provided by the home. Alzheimer’s care homes benefit residents greatly through the establishment of healthy routines and stimulating activities which promote their well being, and often provide additional valuable services such as counseling for family members.
In determining the best situation for a family member who has Alzheimer’s disease, the health and well being of the patient is the highest priority. Researching all options thoroughly, speaking with medical professionals and visiting an Alzheimer’s care home in your area can help you make the best decision regarding your loved one’s care.
About the Author: John Trevey is the C.E.O. of Uncommon Care, an
assisted living Austin Texas home specializing in Alzheimer's care. He is the manager of both
The Barton House and the Breckinridge. For more information, please visit http://www.uncommoncare.com.
