Companions Forever solely provides non-medical care
Dementia affects approximately 4 to 5 million people across the United States and is one of the leading causes of death among seniors over 65. Dementia differs from general cognitive decline due to aging in that functioning decreases more rapidly and interferes significantly with daily activities.
Traveling with a loved one suffering from dementia can be rewarding and enjoyable, both for the loved one and the caregiver. This type of travel, however, requires careful planning, patience and flexibility.
Caring for a patient with dementia can be difficult, especially if that patient is a family member or friend. Seeing a loved one in decline can bring up some heavy emotions and present us with a frustrating new set of challenges when it comes to their health and well-being. To help you become the most effective and compassionate caregiver possible, here are six things every caregiver should know.
One of the challenges of caring for those with dementia or declining mental faculties is the risk of physical assault from the patient. These attacks can often occur unprovoked and can take the caregiver completely by surprise. When faced with this possibility, caregivers can take precautions to protect themselves, but also to protect the health and future care of the patient themselves.
Medical professionals in the United States have defined dementia as a condition with seven distinct stages, ranging from a state of non-impairment to a very severe cognitive decline. Recognizing and identifying the stage and level of dementia care required for an individual is in can be complicated, as the symptoms of dementia are only relevant when compared to a person's "normal" mental state. The seven stages of dementia are:
Music therapy is not a new phenomenon; in fact, it has been around since the time of the ancient Greeks. The idea of using music as part of the healing process was not recognized as a profession until after the World Wars. Musicians performed for the veterans dealing with trauma from their war injuries. Due to the veterans’ positive response, Veterans Administration Hospitals decided to hire musicians to perform regularly.
Dementia is more common in people over 65, but it’s not limited to that demographic. Early onset of the disease can start with people in their 20s but is most common with individuals in their 40s and 50s. Dementia that appears before age 45 is known as young-onset dementia.
Older adults may require special considerations when it comes to the selection of holiday gifts. While many have the exacting tastes they have accumulated over a lifetime, advancing age may mean they are unable to engage in previously enjoyed hobbies. Still, others will have found new interests and preferences. This holiday gift guide will help you locate a well-appreciated gift for even the most discerning of parents!
When it comes to looking after your elderly loved ones, you want to do what’s best for them. If your elderly parents or relatives are struggling to live independently in their home and need some extra support, there are various care options you can consider to make their lives a little more comfortable.
Family gatherings and reunions serve as an excellent way to reunite the family. Planning gatherings such as these can be very stressful, especially if you have family members who are elderly you must attend to, as well as cooking, contacting everyone and rounding up the kids.
Companions Forever is registered through DCP as a companion and homemaker agency.
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