Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease
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Written by webtechs

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is a kind of dementia that impacts memory, thinking and behaviors. Symptoms, in time, develop to be severe enough to interpose with day-to-day tasks.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Alzheimer’s is the most general source of dementia, a typical term for memory loss and other mental abilities severe enough to disrupt day-to-day life. Alzheimer’s disease is responsible for sixty to eighty percent of dementia cases.

Alzheimer’s isn’t a normal part of getting older. The biggest known risk factor is aging, and most individuals with Alzheimer’s are sixty-five or older. This disease is a “younger-onset” of Alzheimer’s when it impacts an individual under sixty-five. Younger-onset can also be known as early-onset Alzheimer’s. Individuals with younger-onset Alzheimer’s could be in the early, middle, or later stage of the disease.

Alzheimer’s worsens progressively. This is a type of progressive disease, in which dementia symptoms steadily worsen over several years. In earlier stages, memory loss is moderate, but with later-stage Alzheimer’s, people lose the capability to engage in a conversation and respond to their settings. On average, an individual with this disease lives five to nine years after diagnosis but could live as long as twenty years, dependent to other factors.

There is no cure, but there are two treatments —  lecanemab (Leqembi™) and  aducanumab (Aduhelm™) show that the removal of beta-amyloid, one of the characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease, from the brain decreases cognitive and functional reduction in individuals living with early on-set of Alzheimer’s. Other treatments can briefly slow the increasing of dementia symptoms and better the quality of life for those suffering from the disease and their caretakers. Presently, there is an international effort underway to discover better ways to treat the disease, impede its onset and prevent it from progressing.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects memory, cognitive function, and behavior. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can vary widely from person to person and may worsen over time. Some common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:

  1. Memory Loss: One of the earliest and most prominent symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease is memory loss, particularly difficulty remembering recently learned information. This may include forgetting important dates or events, asking for the same information repeatedly, or relying on memory aids like notes or reminders.
  2. Difficulty with Problem-Solving and Planning: Alzheimer’s disease can impair a person’s ability to solve problems, make decisions, and plan activities. Tasks that require complex thinking, organization, or attention to detail may become increasingly challenging.
  3. Confusion and Disorientation: People with Alzheimer’s disease may become confused about time, place, or the sequence of events. They may lose track of the day, month, or year, or they may have difficulty recognizing familiar places or faces.
  4. Difficulty with Language and Communication: Alzheimer’s disease can affect a person’s ability to communicate effectively. This may manifest as difficulty finding the right words, trouble following or participating in conversations, or repeating themselves frequently.
  5. Changes in Mood and Behavior: Alzheimer’s disease can cause changes in mood and behavior, such as irritability, agitation, anxiety, or depression. Some individuals may experience mood swings or become withdrawn and socially isolated.
  6. Loss of Initiative and Interest: People with Alzheimer’s disease may lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed and may have difficulty initiating or completing tasks. They may spend more time sleeping or become less engaged in hobbies, social activities, or personal care.
  7. Difficulty with Motor Skills: In later stages of Alzheimer’s disease, individuals may experience difficulty with basic motor skills, such as walking, balance, and coordination. This can increase the risk of falls and accidents.
  8. Personality Changes: Alzheimer’s disease can lead to changes in personality and temperament. Some individuals may become more passive, docile, or withdrawn, while others may become more agitated, aggressive, or suspicious.

It’s important to note that the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can overlap with those of other medical conditions, and not everyone with memory loss or cognitive difficulties will develop Alzheimer’s disease. However, if you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they are interfering with daily functioning or quality of life, it’s important to seek medical evaluation and guidance from a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and access appropriate support and resources.

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

Alzheimer’s Disease, Assisted Living, Dementia, Senior Living
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Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

What Is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is a kind of dementia that impacts memory, thinking and behaviors. Symptoms, in time, develop to be severe enough to interpose with day-to-day tasks.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Alzheimer’s is the most general source of dementia, a typical term for memory loss and other mental abilities severe enough to disrupt day-to-day life. Alzheimer’s disease is responsible for sixty to eighty percent of dementia cases.

Alzheimer’s isn’t a normal part of getting older. The biggest known risk factor is aging, and most individuals with Alzheimer’s are sixty-five or older. This disease is a “younger-onset” of Alzheimer’s when it impacts an individual under sixty-five. Younger-onset can also be known as early-onset Alzheimer’s. Individuals with younger-onset Alzheimer’s could be in the early, middle, or later stage of the disease.

Alzheimer’s worsens progressively. This is a type of progressive disease, in which dementia symptoms steadily worsen over several years. In earlier stages, memory loss is moderate, but with later-stage Alzheimer’s, people lose the capability to engage in a conversation and respond to their settings. On average, an individual with this disease lives five to nine years after diagnosis but could live as long as twenty years, dependent to other factors.

There is no cure, but there are two treatments —  lecanemab (Leqembi™) and  aducanumab (Aduhelm™) show that the removal of beta-amyloid, one of the characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease, from the brain decreases cognitive and functional reduction in individuals living with early on-set of Alzheimer’s. Other treatments can briefly slow the increasing of dementia symptoms and better the quality of life for those suffering from the disease and their caretakers. Presently, there is an international effort underway to discover better ways to treat the disease, impede its onset and prevent it from progressing.

10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s (and Examples)

Loss of memory impacting day-to-day life could be a symptom of Alzheimer’s or other type of dementia. This is a brain disease that is the cause of a progressive decrease in memory, reasoning and thinking skills. There are ten symptoms and warning signs. When you observe any of them, don’t disregard them. Arrange an appointment with your medical professional.

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life – Forgetting names or plans, but recalling them later
  • Troubles in planning or solving problems – Sometimes making errors when managing utility bills or finances
  • Troubles completing familiar tasks – Needing help with the TV remote
  • Confusion with time or place – Confused about the day of the week but remembering later
  • Challenges understanding spatial relationships and visual images– Vision changes associated with cataracts
  • New challenges with words when speaking or writing – Often troublesome to find the right words
  • Diminished or poor judgment – Making bad decisions
  • Seclusion from work or social activities – Often feeling uninterested in social events
  • Changes in personality and mood– Getting frustrated when routines are disrupted

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

Alzheimer’s Disease, Assisted Living, Dementia, Senior Living
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What are Symptoms of Dementia?

 

What are symptoms of dementia?

Whether you are worried for yourself or someone important to you, it’s vital to know the warning signs of dementia so you are able to guarantee a diagnosis early. Below are ten of the more prevalent warning signs of dementia. So, what are symptoms of dementia?

Sign 1: Memory Loss That Impacts Daily Abilities

It’s commonplace to sometimes forget appointments, colleagues’ names or a friend’s phone number just to remember them a little while later. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might forget things more frequently or may have difficulty remembering information that has recently been learned.

Sign 2: Problems Performing Familiar Tasks

Busy individuals can be so distracted from now and then that they might forget to serve a portion of a meal, only to recall it later. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might have difficulty completing tasks that have been familiar to them their whole life, like preparing a meal or playing a boardgame.

Sign 3: Problems with Language

Everyone has trouble finding the right word to say what they wish to say. On the other hand, an individual living with dementia might forget simple words or might substitute words in such a way they are saying making it hard to understand.

Sign 4: Disorientation of Time and Place

Have you ever failed to remember what day of the week it is or can’t recall the reason you went into your kitchen? It happens to the best of us. Individuals living with dementia might become disoriented on their own street, without knowledge of how they got there or how to get back home.

Sign 5: Impaired Judgement

From time to time, people might make questionable decisions like putting off going to a doctor when they aren’t feeling well. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might experience changes in judgment or making decisions, like not recognizing a medical issue that needs addressing or wearing less clothing on a cold day.

Sign 6: Problems with Abstract Thinking

Occasionally, individuals have a hard time with duties that necessitate abstract thinking, like using a phone or solving problems. One the other hand, someone living with dementia might have considerable difficulties with such duties because of a loss of comprehending what numbers are and the way they are used.

Sign 7: Misplacing Things

Anyone could temporarily misplace their wallet or car keys. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might put things where they don’t belong. For instance, an iron in the oven, or a cellphone in the sugar bowl.

Sign 8: Changes in Mood and Behavior

Everyone can feel sad or moody from now and again. On the other hand, an individual living with dementia can demonstrate various mood swings – from peacefulness to crying to anger – without reason.

Sign 9: Personality Changes

Personalities can change in little ways over time. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might experience more noticeable personality changes and can become baffles, suspect, or distant. Changes might also include disinterest or fearfulness.

Sign 10: Loss of Initiative

It’s commonplace to get tired of housework, business obligations or social duties, but most individuals get their initiative back. Be that as it may, an individual living with dementia might become submissive and uninterested and needs cues and encouragement to become interested.

 

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

Dementia, Senior Living
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How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia
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Written by Brian B

How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia

Understanding how to talk to a parent dealing with dementia is crucial. Somedays your loved one may seem fine, while other days you may not recognize their personality, at all. Tough conversations about their well-being and future need to be completed. Here are 7 tips for communicating with someone suffering from dementia.

Tip 1. Research Ahead Of Time

Whenever you are planning a dialogue regarding a loved one suffering from dementia, it’s crucial to understand how challenging this task can be. As we all know, dementia will worsen over time, making the communication aspect more and more difficult. Loved ones suffering from dementia may become argumentative and confused during these talks.

Tip 2. No Distractions

The setting is very important for these talks. Pick a place and time to sit down and speak to your loved. Ensure that there are zero distractions in the area. You want your loved one to focus all of their mental energy on the topic at hand.

Tip 3. Speak Naturally

Stay calm during this talk and always speak naturally. Speaking naturally will help put everyone, especially the parent suffering from dementia, at ease.

Tip 4. Call Them By Name

Call your loved one by his or her name frequently during the conversations. Avoid using “he” or “she” at this time. Greeting someone with dementia by name is always recommended.

Tip 5. Use Nonverbal Cues

Examples of nonverbal cues include smiling, nodding, defined body language and maintaining eye contact. Nonverbal cues are needed to help comfort your loved one, while establishing an understanding at the same time. During the later stages of dementia, this becomes more important.

Tip 6. Listen

Listening is perhaps the biggest key to successful communication. Even if you plan on talking the most during the conversation, the importance of listening cannot be overstated. If you do not understand something, remain calm without raising your voice.

Tip 7. Remain Patient

Give your loved one plenty of time to think and respond. Dealing with dementia requires a lot of patience from all parties involved.

Assisted Living In Sedona AZ

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent, assisted and memory care services in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

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Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s Disease
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Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s Disease

Dementia is common terminology for a decline in an individual’s mental ability serious enough to disrupt day to day life. Alzheimer’s is the most general cause of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a particular disease. Dementia, however, is not.

Getting familiar about the two and the difference between them is vital and can enable individuals with Alzheimer’s or other type of dementia, their families, and their caretaker with necessary knowledge.

Dementia overview

Dementia comprises of a group of symptoms related to a decrease in memory, reasoning, or other thinking abilities. A lot of varying kinds of dementia are out there, and a lot of conditions are the cause of it. Mixed dementia is the condition whereupon brain changes of more than one kind of dementia happen at the same time. Alzheimer’s disease is the most general causation of dementia, that accounts for 60 to 80 percent of cases of dementia.

Dementia is not a typical part of getting older. It is brought upon by damage to brain cells that impacts their ability of communicating with one another, in which may impact thinking, demeanor and emotions.

Alzheimer’s overview

Alzheimer’s is a regressive brain disease that is brought on by complex brain changes after cell damage. Alzheimer’s induces dementia symptoms that steadily get worse over time. The most general early symptom of Alzheimer’s is having a hard remembering newer information since the disease usually affects the part of the brain related with learning first.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, symptoms get more serious and can comprise of disorientation, uncertainty, and demeanor changes. After time, talking, swallowing, and moving around could become challenging. There isn’t a way to stop, cure or even slow the disease.

Although the greatest known risk factor of Alzheimer’s is an increase age, the disease is not a typical part of getting older. And even though a lot of individuals with Alzheimer’s are sixty-five and older, approximately two hundred thousand Americans under are sixty-five have younger onset Alzheimer’s disease.

10 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s

  • Memory loss that interrupts day to day life
  • Difficulty in planning or problem solving
  • Challenges finishing familiar tasks
  • Time or place confusion
  • Trouble comprehending visuals and dimensional relationships
  • New issues with words in talking or writing
  • Misplacement of things and losing the capability of retracing steps
  • Reduced or poor decision making
  • Removal from work and/or social activities
  • Shifts in behavior and personality

When you notice 1 or more signs in yourself or another individual, it may be challenging to know what to do. It is natural to feel uncertainty or nervous about talking about these changes with others. discussing concerns about your own health could make them appear more “real.” Or, you might be worried about upsetting someone by sharing notices about changes in their capabilities or demeanor. Nevertheless, these are consequential health concerns that need to be assessed by a doctor, and it’s vital to take measures and find out what’s going on.

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What Are The Very Early Signs Of Dementia?
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Written by Brian B

What Are The Very Early Signs Of Dementia?

Whether you are searching online for “what are the very early stages of dementia” or “preventing dementia,” this post can help!

Early Signs Of Dementia

Here are seven early signs of dementia to watch out for:

General Confusion

Dementia makes many things very difficult and confusing. One obvious sign is when an individual becomes confused about place and/or time, frequently. Dementia is known for making it hard to judge time and the passing of time. Difficulty with certain dates or recalling points in the past can be a sign of dementia, as well. It doesn’t just extend to place and time, though, as people experiencing memory loss will have a very difficult time trying to plan anything. Whether it is an event in the future or something that will happen momentarily, people with oncoming dementia can show general confusion.

Difficulty With Familiar Tasks

This is yet another obvious sign that you or a loved one is currently suffering. We are all creatures of habit, but when the typical daily endeavors become troublesome, this can lead to dementia. Simple activities like pouring a cup of coffee in the morning or sitting in a particular spot will now become challenging. They may not remember a part of a daily routine or completely alter it. Always be aware of changes in a person’s routine tasks as they can be very subtle.

Memory Loss

Memory loss is generally the first noticeable warning sign for anyone fearing a bout with dementia. This is the most common symptom of this unfortunate part of so many lives. As mentioned above, remembering dates and times will become a problem, but there are other ways to tell if dementia is looming. People with early dementia may start to rely more and more on others for basic needs. Friends or family members may now be tasked with keeping track of dates, doctors appointments, or even household items/possessions. Most people will forget things as they age, but if the issue persists, it is time to think about how to best care for your loved one.

Man With Dementia

Personality Changes

Speaking of clear signs of early dementia, you must monitor and document personality changes. Sure, everyone evolves and changes a bit as they grow, but dementia can cause abrupt alterations to one’s personality and demeanor. Mood swings are unfortunate, yet a common trait for those struggling with memory loss. People may become more anxious, fearful and/or irritable as time goes on. Bouts with depression or inappropriate behavior have been linked to dementia, as well.

Speaking And/Or Writing Issues

This symptom may be hard to diagnose, especially for someone who has always been an introvert. People with dementia can find it very difficult to engage others in any sort of conversation. They could also frequently forget things during a conversation, such as what was just said or the tone of the dialogue. Handwriting could also become noticeably tougher to read.

Poor Decision-Making

Poor decision-making directly relates to personality changes, mood swings and difficulty handling familiar tasks. Anyone suffering from early dementia will have a hard time being logical or understand what is fair. They can drastically change daily patterns or even make irrational purchases or decisions. Be mindful of appearance, as well. People with memory loss tend to care less about keeping themselves presentable.

Lack Of Socialization

Withdrawing more and more from the outside world can be a troubling sign. Whether it is at home or at work, people with dementia generally don’t want a lot of interaction. Regular hobbies or phone conversations may become a thing of the past.

Misplacing Things

A common sign of oncoming dementia is when someone continually misplaces items. It is a cause for concern when someone starts losing track of their keys and/or wallet, frequently. Even worse, some people with dementia may momentarily forget what their car keys are even for. Misplacing things is commonly linked with short-term memory loss.

Signs Of Dementia

Treatments for Dementia

Although there is no cure for dementia, there are steps you can take to make your loved one’s life a little easier. A good rule of thumb is to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, in a specific behavioral approach, can be used to reduce the recurrence or severity of problematic behaviors, like improper conduct or aggression towards others.

Environmental Adjustments

Adjusting the environment can greatly increase their safety and comfort while decreasing their agitation. Home modifications for safety include removal of hazardous items, such as scissors or forks, harmful chemicals and tools. Use child-proof items like electrical outlet covers and door locks may also be used to limit access.

Medications

Although no medications are available to stop or cure dementia, there are medications that can be prescribed to decrease the dementia signs. Nowadays there are many types of drugs available for improving brain function. Usually, other psychotropic and anti-dementia drugs are prescribed.

Read more tips to treating dementia right here.

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Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

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Written by webtechs

What Is Dementia?

What is Dementia?
According to the National Institute on Aging NIA: Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning—thinking, remembering, and reasoning—and behavioral abilities to such an extent that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities.

An In-Depth Look At Dementia

Dementia isn’t just an individual disease by itself, but is usually a common term to describe the symptoms of deterioration in thinking, communicating, and memory. Although the likelihood of having this disease develops with age, it is not considered a typical part of aging.

What Are The 5 Top Causes Of Dementia?

Neurodegenerative Cause – Is the process of where the brain cells (neurons) break down and die.

Cerebrovascular Cause – Is a common type of dementia where blood vessels in the brain are narrowed cutting off the blood supply.

Infection Associated– A parasite, virus, and some bacteria’s can cause an infection that can lead to dementia.

Toxic and Metabolic Cause – As a result of a chemical imbalance; toxins, such as drugs, malnutrition, or biological factors, can cause dementia.

Traumatic Cause – As a result of concussions, severe brain and head injuries can lead to this disease.

What Are Types of Dementia?

There are a multitude of types of this disease, below are the primary ones.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most general type of this disease, and makes up around Sixty percent of US diagnoses.

Vascular Dementia

Around seventeen percent of individuals established with dementia are going to have vascular dementia. This is the second most general kind of this disease in the over sixty-five range and is created by issues with blood supply to the brain.

Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal dementia is in reference to a group of dementias that impacts the temporal and frontal lobes of the brain, affecting personality, behavior, speech, and language.

Mixed Dementia

At a minimum one in every ten individuals with this disease is diagnosed as having more than one kind, or mixed dementia.

Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy body dementia is a developing condition that impacts movement and motor control.

Alcohol Associated Brain Damage

Alcohol associated brain damage is caused by excessively drinking alcohol over an extended period.

Posterior Cortical Atrophy

Posterior cortical atrophy is an uncommon form of this disease which an individual typically develops between the ages of fifty and sixty-five and often impacts their sight.

Huntington’s Disease

This disease is a genetic disorder produced by a defective gene on chromosome four.

Parkinson’s Disease

It is estimated that Parkinson’s disease impacts around one in five hundred individuals, with about a 1/3rd of individuals going on to develop dementia in the late stages.

What Are the Different Stages Of Dementia?

Usually, dementia goes through around 7 stages. It also varies depending on what area of the brain that is affected.

1) No Impairment:

Your loved one at this stage will likely show no symptoms, but taking a test may expose a problem.

2) Very Mild Decline:

You may notice minor changes in behavior, but your loved one will still have their independence.

3) Mild Decline:

You will notice more differences in their reasoning and thinking. They may have difficulty making plans, remembering recent events, and they may repeat themselves over and over.

4) Moderate Decline: 

They’ll have more of a hard time with making plans and remembering more recent events. They also may have problems with handling money or traveling.

5) Moderately Severe Decline: 

They may not remember their own phone number or some of their family and friends names. They may be puzzled about what time of day it is or which day of the week it is. At this point, they will need help with some basic functions, such as picking out what to wear.

6) Severe Decline: 

They will start to forget the name of their significant other. They will need using the restroom and eating. You may also notice changes in their emotions and personality.

7) Very Severe Decline: 

They can no longer speak what they’re thinking.  They can no longer walk and will spend most of their time bedridden.

What are Treatments for Dementia?

Although there is no cure for this disease, there are step you can take to make your loved one’s life a little easier. A good rule of thumb is to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, in a specific behavioral approach, can be used to reduce the recurrence or severity of problematic behaviors, like improper conduct or aggression towards others.

Environmental Adjustments

Adjusting the environment can greatly increase their safety and comfort while decreasing their agitation. Home modifications for safety include removal of hazardous items, such as scissors or forks, harmful chemicals and tools. Use child-proof items like electrical outlet covers and door locks may also be used to limit access.

Medications

Although no medications are available to stop or cure this disease there are medications that can be prescribed to decrease the dementia signs. Nowadays there are many types of drugs available for improving brain function. Usually, other psychotropic and anti-dementia drugs are prescribed.

Find Memory Care Facilities In Arizona

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Moving A Parent With Dementia into Assisted Living

how to move a parent with dementia into assisted living

If you are searching for “how to move a parent with dementia into assisted living“, this post should help!

While there aren’t any correct guidelines for when it is time to move a loved one into an assisted living community, however, you can be looking for signs that it is time to move them to assisted living or memory care facility.

One of the main issues is that people set tough guidelines. You may have to move a loved one if they start to forgetting their name or if they forget how to use the bathroom, but it is feasible that your loved one will not experience those changes. In the mean time, you and your loved ones can be hanging in there trying to care for someone who has dementia and they may benefit by moving to an assisted living facility.

Indications That It’s Time For Assisted Living

It is imperative to be looking out for any of these signs that it is time to move your loved one to a assisted living facility:

  1. Your loved one with dementia is not safe in their home.

One of the main reasons that you need to move your loved one into assisted living is when there isn’t adequate resources to safely care for a loved one who has dementia. It is suggested that you take a look at these safety concerns to help gauge your loved one’s circumstances:

  • Has your loved one fallen down lately? Has it occurred more than once?
  • Have they become physical combative to others or yourself?
  • Are they having trouble when they try to cook?
  • Are they capable to make meals and store them safely?
  • Are they eating normally? Are they gaining/ losing abnormal amounts of weight?
  • Are they forgetting their medication doses? Are they taking too much of their medication?
  • Are they starting to lose track of where they are when they are not at home?
  • Are they driving, when they are not supposed to?
  • Are they susceptible to a financial scam or have been deceived by one?
  1. You are starting to get drained.

Getting burned out is basically a blanket term that means a lot of circumstances are challenging for a caregiver. Some can become physically drained because of the needs of their loved one, and then it takes a toll on their health. Others can get emotionally exhausted, feel that they need to escape themselves, or get socially inaccessible. Try not to get angry, it can only make the circumstances worse.

Guilt also fits into burn out. If you have been locked into constantly being stressed, inadequately equipped to care for your loved one, or flustered. If you have feeling of guilt for having those thoughts or feeling, then it is time to begin to look into dementia care. Guilt is what you feel if you think you have done something wrong. Being frustrated that a loved one was diagnosed with dementia or just hoping that you had more free time to care for them, is not something you should feel guilty over.

  1. Your loved one who is diagnosed dementia is disinterested.

Whenever your loved one is starts asking what you are doing, tagging you around, they most likely bored. Assisted living communities have events that are specifically designed for people who have dementia and it also allows people to be with others who are in the same situation.

It is about giving them reason and purpose in their day. Don’t feel bad if you stopped meeting these needs. Caregivers can be hampered that they forget that the person that has dementia isn’t getting the stimulus they need and decline may come faster.

Do your Assisted Living Homework

Accepting that you will have to start looking for dementia care is the first step in a lengthy process. To help find a community near you that specializes in assisted living, Caring.com will provide a large directory of assisted living communities all over the nation. There you will be able to find information about the care provided as well as consumer reviews.

Here Are Some Other Steps To Help You In Your Research:

  1. Get in touch with the Alzheimer’s Association.

You can reach out to your local Alzheimer’s Association who can give you with crucial information about resources and even more the emotional and social reinforcement that you will need as you go through the process.

  1. Begin looking into dementia care sooner than later.

Take time and research facilities in your area early on, so there’s not a need to make a careless decision during a bad situation. Understanding whenever you pick assisted living that doesn’t have memory care, there may be additional costs.

Ensure that you access the activity programs as it will help to provide enough stimulation for the brain of your loved one for a better quality of life.

  1. Hire a Geriatric Care specialist.

There are professionals who specialize in advising caregivers’ research options for assisted living. The advantage of hiring these professionals is to help you locate a great match for your loved one which will make the conversations much easier, because they are able to help with discussions about the move.

  1. Consult with an attorney.

Optimally, you, your loved one and family will take care of the financial and legal arrangement issues after they are diagnosed. Your loved one who has dementia can and should be included in outlining their care choices as dementia beings to progress.

This process needs to give caregivers the power of attorney and health mandates which can help when it is time to move. If you don’t have these in place, and your loved one is refusing the much needed move, you have 2 alternatives:

  • You could establish a web of volunteer and paid care at home as well as daily itineraries.
  • You can also hire an attorney to deal with the legalities that are needed to give you the power to make the choices for them.
  1. Do your research so you can better understand dementia.

There are specific things that will develop with the disease; it doesn’t matter where your loved one is living. Accepting how dementia will alter your loved one can help you to know how you, your loved one and family can handle the situation you are in as a group.

Tips To Make The Move To Assisted Living Notably Easier

Tip 1. Invite them to lunch

If your loved one is still a bit hesitant about moving into an assisted living community, invite them to make a couple lunch visits or attend planned activities at some of the places that you have been looking at. Make these activities social and fun which can increase the warm friendliness within the communities.

Tip 2. Get paired up with other residents

Ask the staff to pair you up with 1 or 2 other tenants who are social and friendly. Don’t discuss with your loved one that you are arranging for them to live there. Instead introduce them to the tenants. Take this for instance: “This is my dad, Freddie. He loves to cook.” After you have stepped in a couple of more times, propose that they spend a bit more time there with their new found friends. Later, give them the great news that there is a great room available where he can stay for a couple of days.

Tip 3. Tell them it’s just a brief stay

Those who have dementia that may not want to move, but you can make the change much easier if you tell them that it is just momentary and for a realistic reason. For example, you could tell them that they need to be out of the house so that you can have the roof looked at, or that they need to go a place where their health can be taken care of for a little bit.

Tip 4. Help make preparations

Families will often prepare the apartment, by picking and decorating it in the facility and then cooperate with staff so that everyone will know what the reason for this move is. Once they are involved in the community, they will accept their permanent circumstances.

You will want to keep your tone as upbeat as possible; it will be hard, and bury the guilty feelings that you may have. It will be hard to lie to your loved one, but you need to understand that telling the truth could in reality, harm them.

Tip 5. Don’t make your first visit long and drawn out

Once your loved one has finally moved in, make sure to keep your first visit short and sweet. Be sure and keep the conversation positive as can be. They will most likely ask when they will be going home. Refrain from telling your loved that they are living there now, and just deflect the conversation by talking about like new friends, and what they are eating. Keep in contact with the facility staff. If they report that your loved one was agitated after the visit, you may want to give them a little more time to adjust to their new home before you start regularly visiting.

The decision about your moving your loved one to dementia care needs to be a family choice. The only guideline is to make the decision with your team, which involves your loved one with dementia, you, your family and the doctor.

Sedona Winds Offers Assisted Living In Sedona, Arizona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community is an assisted living facility in Sedona, Arizona. For more information about our assisted living facility, contact SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 928-985-6259.

 

Assised Living, Assisted Living Community, Dementia
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