Residential Health Care Isn't The Only Option For Alzheimer's Patients

Caring for a parent or grandparent with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive disorder can be a very difficult full-time job

. As the disease progresses, it becomes increasingly dangerous to leave the person unsupervised since there is no way to tell when an "episode" will occur that can put the afflicted senior in danger. Stoves are often left on resulting in kitchen fires or the senior can wander off to get lost. The senior typically needs assistance with medications, grooming, and hygiene. Remaining in the familiar home environment for as long as possible is a great plus to remain more independent for a longer period but it places tremendous demands on the family caretakers.

In-Home Care

There is help available in Maryland for seniors suffering from Alzheimer's and their families. Though residential health care may be an inevitable future, there are programs for in-home family and nursing care that can be very helpful in the interim to keep the senior at home safely. Professional, trained home health care attendants can provide the supervision, companionship, and care needed during the day when family caretaker is at work or at night to allow the caretaker to sleep undisturbed. A home health care attendant can provide assistance for an afternoon or evening a week to allow the caretaker to shop or pursue social interests. Though emphasis is placed on caring for the disabled loved one, caretakers need to put themselves on the list as well to remain healthy and reduce the intense stress that caring for their loved one creates.

Respite Care

Respite care at a residential health care facility is also available. This temporary stay can be for a night, weekend, or a couple of weeks or more to allow the family to take a much needed vacation. The family caretakers can truly relax and rejuvenate knowing that the loved one is comfortable, safe, and very well cared for in their absence. It is to everyone's benefit to periodically leave the family and nursing care to others from time to time.

Assisted Living

If the time comes when the senior can no longer remain safely at home, assisted living in Maryland can be an excellent option. Services are provided as needed to allow the senior to remain as independent as possible while in a safe, secure environment. Skilled, caring professionals will help with medications, personal care, food preparation, and more as needed on an individual basis.

Caring for a family member with Alzheimer's is difficult and heartbreaking but there is wonderful support available to help both the patient and family.

by: Art Gib

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