How To Care For Your Loved One With Dementia At Home

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Watching someone you love go through tough trials in life is a hard pill to swallow. If they have been diagnosed with dementia, you know all too well it is a tough disease to go through, especially alone. For you and your loved one, inpatient skilled nursing care is not an option right now. You want to try caregiving at home. Here are some ways to make it work for everyone.

Hire A Private Care Team

If your loved one still wants to live independently at home or wants to move into your home, a private care team can help. You can hire private caregivers to come to the home and assist with ADLs or activities of daily living. You can go through a home care company or hire professionals independently. This includes:

• Private duty nurse- Depending on their credentials and the level of care you need, you can hire an LPN or RN. Private nurses can help with most healthcare needs. 
• Home Health Aide- This person should have completed training accredited by a state or national school. An HHA can help with bathing, eating, dressing, and walking assistance. 
• Respite Care- You can hire someone to stay with your loved one so you can go to work or get a break. 

No matter what needs your loved one with dementia has, there are at-home care teams who can help. Ask for a referral from your loved one's doctor or local social work office. 

See If Your Loved One Qualifies for Care

If your loved one has been in an assisted living or nursing home and you want to transfer them home, inquire about what home care services may be covered. In many cases, medical insurance may cover all or a portion of the cost. Some secondary insurances also cover home care services. 

From there, a local home care company can provide at-home medical services. This may include a social worker, occupational therapist, or speech and language therapist to help assist your loved one's needs as they deal with their dementia on a daily basis. 

Seek Out Support

Taking care of someone with dementia means their needs are ever-changing. Things can take a twist and turn at a moment's notice. Having a good support system in place is essential for good care. 

Start with your doctor for a referral. They can connect you with professionals in the area who specialize in dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Don't forget about your neighbors, friends, family, and church congregation for additional emotional support.  

Caring for your loved one with dementia is a great gift, but you are up to the challenge. You are providing around-the-clock support to them so they don't feel scared and alone. The end goal is to have them safe and thriving as independently as possible.

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17 April 2023