Memory Care-Dementia

A special program that addresses the unique needs of clients diagniosed with Alzheimer’s and dementia disease.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Program

Alzheimer’s and dementia are prevalent conditions in the elderly population. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than six million people in the United States live with Alzheimer’s, and one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

Typical issues people experience when providing home care to elderly parents with dementia include difficulty communicating, changes in mood and behavior, difficulty with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing, sleep disturbances, and wandering or getting lost.

Family caregivers may struggle to balance their caregiving responsibilities with other aspects of their lives, such as work or caring for their families. In addition, caring for a loved one with dementia can be emotionally draining and may lead to stress, guilt, and sadness.

When providing professional home care services for a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia, caregivers aim to create a safe and comfortable environment for the individual, promote routine and consistency, and manage challenging behaviors. The specific services provided by a professional caregiver for an Alzheimer’s or dementia patient include:

Memory Care: Alzheimer’s and dementia patients often experience memory loss, and caregivers can help them recall essential details like medication schedules, appointments, and daily routines. They can also use memory games and exercises to help slow the progression of memory loss.
Personal Care: Caregivers can assist with daily activities, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing, to help maintain a sense of normalcy for the individual. They also monitor for any changes in hygiene or physical condition, which can indicate a change in health.
Medication Management: Alzheimer’s and dementia patients often require multiple medications, which must be taken at the right time and in dosage. Professional caregivers can manage medications, ensure proper dosages, and coordinate with medical professionals.
Mobility Assistance: Dementia and Alzheimer’s patients may struggle with balance and mobility, making them more prone to falls. Caregivers can assist with mobility, including transfers, walking, and helping the individual move around safely.
Meal Preparation: A professional caregiver can prepare nutritious meals for the individual, considering any dietary restrictions or preferences. This helps ensure the individual receives adequate nutrition and hydration, essential for maintaining good health.
Emotional Support: Alzheimer’s and dementia can be isolating, and caregivers can provide companionship, engage in meaningful activities, and offer emotional support to help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Behavior Management: Dementia and Alzheimer’s patients may display challenging behaviors such as wandering, agitation, or aggression. Caregivers are trained to manage and respond to these behaviors calmly and compassionately, using techniques such as redirection and reassurance.
Communication Techniques: Professional caregivers are trained in communication techniques to help improve interactions between the caregiver and the individual with Alzheimer’s or dementia. These techniques may include speaking slowly, using visual aids, and validating feelings and concerns.

In summary, professional caregivers provide specialized services to help individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia live safely and comfortably in their homes. By promoting routine and consistency, managing challenging behaviors, and providing emotional support, caregivers can help enhance the quality of life for those with memory-related conditions.

Choosing a Home Care Provider

When choosing a home care provider, it is important to consider your health and independence goals and which services will benefit you.
It may be helpful to discuss your goals and wishes with your family members and wider support system and to create a list of services and support you would like to get more information on. You can then start investigating potential aged care providers who can deliver these services.

When considering different aged care providers, some of the questions you may ask include:

How long have you been operating/delivering services in aged care?
What sets you apart from other providers?
What qualifications do your staff have?
Do you have experience with supporting people from different cultures and backgrounds?
How much do your different services cost?
What funding arrangements are available (e.g. private pay or government funded packages)?
How will my out of pocket expenses be calculated?
Do you assist with funding applications and the assessment process?
If I am unhappy with my service, what can I do?
Will I be locked into a contract?
Do you charge case management fees?

What should you take with you when meeting your new provider?

If you haven’t yet begun the application process for home care funding, you should bring information on your income and relevant personal identification documents. If you have already been approved for a Home Care Package, you should bring your approval letter and support plan, as well as the outcome of your income assessment.

The income assessment helps to establish any co-contributions you may be requested to make and will give you a clearer understanding of your overall cost.

You will not be asked to complete an income assessment if you receive any of the following:

Age Pension
Service Pension
Income Support Supplement
Veterans’ Payment

Depending on your circumstances, there are a range of home care funding options available that give you access to affordable in-home care.