Many seniors want to age in place, but for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, aging in place poses particular challenges. Still, with Alzheimer’s home care strategies in place, those challenges can be met head-on, ensuring seniors have the support they need to continue living in their homes.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment
Alzheimer’s can impair a person’s capacity to navigate and engage safely with their surroundings. Addressing safety concerns proactively is an important first step in effective Alzheimer’s home care. Families can work with home health to reduce dangers and ensure the home is safe. In doing so, some of the following modifications may need to be made:
- Remove Tripping Hazards: It’s important to remove tripping hazards, including rugs, cords, and clutter, from frequently used areas.
- Installing Grab Bars and Handrails: Installing grab bars and handrails in bathrooms, stairwells, and other areas helps to improve balance and mobility.
- Keep Hazards Locked Up: To avoid mishaps, family members should keep sharp or hazardous things such as knives, chemicals, and medication safely stored.
- Label Things: Labels or signage can help seniors easily identify items and areas. While this might not seem necessary, especially if they’ve lived in the home for a long time, the reduced confusion it offers is key. Additionally, as memory and cognitive abilities deteriorate, simplifying the living environment and ensuring it is well-lit further reduces confusion.
Establish Daily Routines
Routine is a valuable tool for Alzheimer’s patients. Familiar patterns and activities create a sense of security and predictability, reducing anxiety and confusion. Family members should focus on a daily routine that includes:
- Regular meals, exercise, and bedtime
- Listening to music
- Making simple crafts
- Simple exercises
- Regular breaks
While it’s important to be consistent, family members should also be mindful of changing needs and adjust the routine to reflect those needs.
Utilize Technology for Monitoring and Support
Modern technology has the potential to significantly improve Alzheimer’s home care services. Devices such as home monitoring systems, medical alert systems, and GPS trackers can help ensure safety and provide peace of mind for family members.
Also, seniors who feel comfortable using smartphones or tablets may benefit from apps that provide brain stimulation or prescription reminders. Another thing to consider is the use of voice-activated devices, such as smart speakers, to create reminders, such as taking medication, or to play relaxing music.
Promote Social Engagement and Connection
Alzheimer’s can cause isolation, which might increase cognitive decline. With Alzheimer’s home care strategies in place, family members can encourage social interactions. These might include short, scheduled visits with family and friends, taking seniors to community events, and more.
Alzheimer’s home care for seniors aging in place takes a comprehensive approach that incorporates safety precautions, daily routines, technology, and social connections. Families can support their loved ones’ wish to remain in familiar surroundings while also promoting their safety and dignity by adjusting the home environment, implementing a solid, consistent plan, and adding home health as needed.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Home Care in Beacon Falls, CT, please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services of New Haven, CT, today. Call (203) 538-6273
At Talem Home Care & Placement Services of Fort Hartford, CT, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in New Haven, Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Cheshire, Derby, Milford, Naugatuck, Orange, Prospect, Seymour, Shelton, Stratford, Trumbull, West Haven, Woodbridge, and Woodmont and surrounding areas in Connecticut.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/basics/dependent-seniors/hlv-20049407
https://www.helpguide.org/aging/dementia/tips-for-alzheimers-caregivers
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place/home-safety-tips-older-adults
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