Dementia is a progressive loss of cognitive function and short term memory. There are many causes of dementia, Alzheimer's being just one of them. Some dementia can be brought on by improper management of medications. Sometimes, alcohol abuse can bring on sudden symptoms of dementia. Some dementia is treatable and reversible while other form are not. Most seniors with dementia will require a full-time caregiver.
Many unhealthy emotions accompany the onset and development of dementia: anxiety, depression, irrational fears that lead to insulation and withdrawal. Things a person is used to doing as a regular routine become difficult and challenging. Hiring a Home Care agency that is nursing supervised and have caregivers trained in the care of dementia and Alzheimer's can help you overcome these challenges.
In-home caregivers can provide service from a few hours a week to full time live-in care. Even a few hours a week of respite care can make a huge difference in the life of a caregiver trying to provide support. The advantage of going through an agency is that the caregivers will have been given a complete background check and probably drug tested as well. Comprehensive insurance, bonding and workman's comp coverage protects you from anything that can go wrong, even if the caregiver is driving your car. A good agency will also do a full nursing assessment, develop a plan of care with you, and do a safety assessment of your home.
According to the Alzheimer's association, these are the things to ask potential in-home care providers:
- Are you trained in CPR and First Aid?
- Do you have experience working with dementia?
- Are you trained in dementia care?
- Are you with an insured, bonded, accredited agency?
- Are you able to provide references?
- What is your back up plan in case a caregiver gets sick, or fails to show?
There are a wide range of services an in-home care agency can provide including: personal care, companion care, respite services, light housekeeping, homemaker services, meal preparation, transportation for errands/groceries/Doctors visits...
The cost of these services can vary widely, but according to a study by Met Life, the median cost is about $22/hour for a qualified agency caregiver.
There may come a time when staying at home is no longer an option. In severe dementia cases, the loss of memory, emotional outbursts, and the threat of the patient running away and getting lost can become so great that it becomes necessary to consider moving to a facility that specializes in dementia care.
March 5, 2014
If you have an aging loved one who needs professional home care services, or are considering home care services for yourself, call Harmony Home Health and talk to our care staff. They will be attentive to your situation, and provide clear and immediate options to help you deal with the difficulties you face.
Harmony Home Health provides services for the greater Sacramento, Placer, and El Dorado Counties.
For more information and a FREE assessment CALL (916) 933-9777
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Philbrick
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