Have you been torn between in-home care and a nursing home for your loved one? We understand that there are many things to consider and when your loved one has Dementia or Alzheimer’s, the decision is even more complex. We hope that the information we share will help it be less complex…
The biggest value that in-home care offers for any senior is that it allows them to remain in the comfort, familiar surroundings, and safety of their own home for as long as possible – which has been proven to enhance their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
However, as an adult child of an aging parent who is at the early or advanced stages of memory loss due to Dementia, Alzheimer’s, or another condition, you may be wondering if aging in place is even an option. Now that many in-home care agencies can provide caregivers who have special memory care and patient safety training, this level of care combined with your loved one’s ability to remain in their familiar surroundings makes in-home services something worth considering. Let’s explore some of the benefits of allowing a dementia patient to remain in their home:
1. You void the disorientation caused by moving – Moving to an assisted living facility, a memory care unit or a nursing home is not easy for any aging parent, but it can be downright disorienting for a dementia patient. In fact, relocating them could even cause a setback in their mental health and worsen their condition.
2. It maintains home routines – Even simple daily home routines such as mealtime rituals, checking the mail, or watching a TV show or the news at the same time every day can support and reinforce memory care – plus it creates a sense of stability and predictability.
3. Respect for privacy and dignity– In-home caregivers are trained to facilitate daily activities, including chores and personal care tasks, at the appropriate times and only provide assistance when needed. Respecting the dignity and privacy of a senior and preserving their very personal and deeply ingrained routines not only helps enhance their memory, but it also gives them a sense of empowerment and understanding of what is going on around them.
4. Customized in-home memory care activities – Caregivers can provide memory care by learning about a senior’s life, interests, and hobbies. They can help your senior family member continue to engage in – or at least observe – their favorite activities and help them continue activities, events, and traditions as much as possible. An experienced caregiver will also work to engage clients in a variety of activities – whether at home or outside the home – as their interests or abilities change.
5. Sensory stimulation – An essential part of in-home dementia care is sensory stimulation. This is especially important in the later stages of memory impairment. Studies show that participating in music therapy, light therapy, aromatherapy, dance or other stimulating activities can have a very positive effect on memory, mental health, physical health as well as social awareness.
When you are looking into a long-term solution for your aging parent – especially if they are a memory care patient – it’s good to know that you have options. We hope these points will help you make an educated decision on the best possible long-term solution.