In 2024, there will be nearly 7 million Americans over the age of 65 living with Alzheimer’s disease. It can be a unique challenge for every member of the family when a loved one develops Alzheimer’s. Below are some of the ways that an in-home caregiver can provide professional assistance.
Improved Quality of Life
Non-medical, in-home caregiving services help to ensure that older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease can maintain their independence as much as possible and live a fulfilling life. Everyone deserves the right to have a well-maintained personal space, keep up with their personal hygiene, and feel healthy mentally, physically, and emotionally. Caregivers are trained to prepare balanced, nutritious meals and keep your loved one hydrated throughout the day, which is often a challenge for those living with Alzheimer’s disease to remember to do on their own.
Meet Care Needs
In-home caregivers have a specialized knowledge of the unique care needs of someone living with Alzheimer’s. They can assist with daily household tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and tidying up, as well as with personal hygiene and physician-approved physical activity. Non-medical caregivers can also provide transportation services, making doctors’ appointments more accessible.
Increased Socialization
Loneliness, isolation, and boredom are common challenges for senior citizens, but this can be especially debilitating for adults living with Alzheimer’s. Engagement and mental stimulation are key to a healthy brain and a happy life. Caregivers form a trusting relationship with families and get to know the person in their care on a personal level. Your loved one will have companionship built into their daily routine and will be encouraged to take walks, play games, share stories, listen to music, and follow their curiosities.
Reduced Confusion
Being able to age comfortably and safely in their own home greatly reduces the amount of disorientation and confusion your loved one experiences as they age. Creating an established routine that prompts productivity and predictability is important for adults with Alzheimer’s. In-home care professionals will work with your loved one to create a customized routine and help them stick to it.
Relief for Families
Seeing your loved one behave differently and lose the ability to care for themselves due to Alzheimer’s disease is a difficult challenge that many families go through. Many family caregivers experience caregiver burnout, which affects their mental and physical health. Being a caregiver is a demanding job. Turning to a professional in-home caregiver to help meet the care needs of your aging loved one can provide relief for your family to focus on creating meaningful memories with your loved one without fear or guilt that their needs aren’t being met.
If you are struggling to provide the care that your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease needs, it may be time to turn to a professional non-medical, in-home caregiver. At HomeSpark, we will get to know your loved one and help develop a personalized care plan to meet their unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about our caregiving services.