A Guide on Alzheimer's Care
Alzheimer's care can seem overwhelming. This medical condition is a progressive, irreversible, and degenerative brain disorder that affects the patient's ability to carry out daily activities. Thus, patients require assisted living with physical, housekeeping, and medical needs. An Alzheimer's care plan may include the services listed below.
Personal Care
An Alzheimer's patient often requires support with basic personal tasks. These activities include personal hygiene exercises like bathing and brushing. In this way, the caregiver supports the patient to maintain body health and also gets an opportunity to monitor any skincare problems. Patients also receive assistance with personal grooming such as dressing, shaving, and hair care. Besides, personal care involves help with toilet use. Ultimately, personal care aims to improve the hygiene, confidence, and self-esteem of Alzheimer's patients.
Housekeeping
Alzheimer's patients need assistance with most housekeeping chores. Usually, an Alzheimer's patient has problem completing tasks, which hinders their ability to perform housekeeping. Thus, a caregiver will usually help with tasks like laundry, house cleaning, and washing utensils. In addition, the patients have problems with abstract math, which affects their money decisions. Having a care provider assist with shopping needs enhances physical and financial safety for Alzheimer's patients.
Nutritional Services
Good nutrition is recommended as part of Alzheimer's care. Typically, nutrition helps in maintaining good health at all stages of life. However, this function is more important for older people who have Alzheimer's disease. The nutrition needs for Alzheimer's patients may include having a balanced diet, more vegetables and hormone-free meats, and the use of unsaturated fats. Thus, the caregiver will assist in preparing healthy meals. More so, Alzheimer's patients may require assistance with feeding due to gradual loss of holding capability.
Movement and Exercises
Alzheimer's patients require regular exercises for physical and mental well-being. Consequently, care management will include routine physical exercises to improve general wellness. Such actives include yoga and aerobics or outdoor walks and gardening. However, it is crucial to consider the stage of dementia in planning for exercise. Some patients may require only physical therapy like massage. Notably, exercises may also include leisure activities like board and puzzle games. These activities enhance cognitive skills and create time for socialization.
Medical Therapy
Medical therapy for Alzheimer's patients is a form of skilled care. Often, the activities include assistance with medication, wound management, and physical therapy. This form of Alzheimer's care requires the assistance of a health professional to cater to the patient's medical needs.
For many people, Alzheimer's care is not a choice but a necessity. You'll just need to determine who will provide these services. Reach out to Alzheimer's care providers to learn more.