Managing dementia requires caregivers to take on a comprehensive and holistic approach. Finding services for dementia patients in Southlake, TX and managing a care plan is determined by multiple factors including the severity and specific type of condition.
Dementia affects individuals on many levels. Memory loss, confusion, reduced coordination, and fatigue are the more common symptoms. There are also different types of dementia – Alzheimer’s dementia, Lewy Body dementia, Frontrotemporal dementia, and Vascular dementia being the four most common ones. As any type of condition progresses, the level of care and support required increases as well.
Seniors in Southlake, TX living with dementia have a variety of care options available depending on the progression of their condition and their specific needs.
There are 2 common areas of care and support:
- In-home Care
- Therapy in the form of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy
In-home Care for Dementia Patients
In-home care is a popular option for patients who prefer to age in the comfort of their own homes. In-home care consists of two options: live-in care and hourly care, also known as sitter services. One key aspect of both live-in and hourly care, is the need to find the right set of caregivers who have the relevant experience to care for dementia patients and are a compatible personality match.
The primary benefit of in-home care (both live-in and hourly care) is the ability to live with dementia in a familiar environment. Memory loss, confusion, and disorientation are incredibly challenging symptoms to navigate. The safety and familiarity of the home environment is very beneficial in helping assuage the anxiety and concerns that come with memory loss .
Live-in Care
Live-in care consists of having a professional caregiver live with a patient to provide 24/7 personalized care. This type of care provides seniors with the benefits of living in a familiar environment during a challenging time. Live-in care is a cost-effective option when care is required for an aging couple with varying needs, and it eliminates the costs associated with moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home.
Sitter service or hourly care
Hourly care or sitter services are when a professional caregiver (certified nursing assistant) visits the patient’s home for a specified number of hours per day. This type of care is common during the mild or early stages of the condition. Seniors receive flexible and cost-effective care, while receiving regular support in the comfort of their own home. Hourly care is often the precursor to live-in care and allows for the implementation of a manageable long-term care plan.
Therapy for Dementia Patients
Therapy is an integral part of a good care plan because it can help manage symptoms that impact communication skills, mobility, and quality of life. There are three main types of therapy: physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help patients improve their mobility and reduce fall risk by working on balance and gait issues that commonly affect dementia patients. Another benefit of physical therapy is helping seniors manage daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, and writing. These essential skills are often compromised due to reduced coordination caused by dementia.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy helps dementia patients improve their memory and cognitive function. These skills are heavily impacted by dementia and affect the ability to perform daily tasks independently. A knowledgeable occupational therapist can help provide support to navigate these changes.
Speech therapy
Speech therapy can help dementia patients with communication skills, and any difficulties with eating and swallowing. Dementia sometimes causes rigidity or muscular deterioration which makes talking and eating challenging. This is often a source of much anxiety and concern in seniors because they are unable to express themselves or communicate their needs. Being unable to eat or drink also impacts their health and well-being. Speech therapy can help reduce these impacts.
How can I decide which option works best?
Choosing the right option for a dementia patient can be a challenging task. And to put it succinctly, there is no “right” or “best” answer. No two patients are alike and designing an in-home care plan requires a very personalized approach. Dementia is a progressive condition, and its symptoms and impacts on patients’ daily life change over time.
In-home care and therapy are all viable options that can help patients manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life whilst aging with dignity and agency. At different times in your loved one’s prognosis, they will have differing needs that require specialized solutions. It is important to consult with medical professionals, and caregiving experts to understand the best fit for your loved ones needs.
Contact Care Mountain for your care needs in Southlake, TX
If you have any questions or concerns about supporting your loved one with dementia, Care Mountain has the answers. We prioritize the needs of your family and have been the leading provider of in-home care services in Southlake, TX for over 18 years. Our commitment to quality care has made us a trusted partner for families looking to provide personalized care to their loved ones with dementia.
We believe that with the right help, seniors with dementia can age safely and happily, in a comfortable environment.
Questions? We’re here to help. Please contact our care staff anytime at [email protected], or by phone at (972-379-8891).
Gagan Bhalla is the Executive Director of Care Mountain Home Health Care. For over 19 years, Care Mountain has offered dedicated expertise in senior in-home care in the Dallas Fort Worth area. Managing seven locations across Texas, Gagan has committed his life to enhancing the well-being of seniors and their families needing home health care. Through insightful articles and blogs, he shares his wealth of knowledge, empowering families to make informed decisions about home care. Trust Gagan’s experience to guide you on the path to compassionate and professional senior care.