Why In-home Care is a Good Option For Someone With Dementia

We understand that caring for someone with dementia can be challenging and stressful. You can feel like you don’t have any options and like you are being pushed into taking away the independence of your loved one by moving them to a care home. However, this isn’t the case, you do have options available to you.

 

One of the best options available to you for a loved one who is in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimers is in-home care. You may feel like this is something that you are providing already, but having assistance from a professional can make such a big difference. To provide you with some more information we have put together a list of reasons why home help for elderly people with dementia is a good option. 

 

Familiar environment 

 

This is probably the biggest benefit of in-home care. At a time when everything can feel strange, new and scary, your loved one being in their own home can provide so much comfort. This option is far less disorienting for a dementia patient than a move to a new home/room. Being in a place they love with their own belongings offers a great deal of security and peace of mind for individuals with dementia.

 

Routine 

 

In a similar way to a familiar environment, having a routine is soothing for a dementia patient. Maintaining a schedule similar to the one your love one followed before they got dementia can help reduce anxiety and confusion. For example, if your loved one used to watch the news after dinner each night for many years they may feel a sense of normality when it’s switched on, even if they don’t completely understand what they are watching.

 

Professional caregivers are trained to facilitate daily activities at the appropriate times and help your loved ones follow their daily routine. Humans are creatures of habit, and preserving these personal and deeply ingrained routines can help your loved ones retain some control and understanding of what is going on around them.

 

Meaningful engagement 

 

Although your loved one may enjoy themselves when you come and visit them and this visit is incredibly meaningful from an emotional point of view, they may be able to receive more meaningful engagement from trained professionals. Having knowledge of the clinical aspects of dementia allows professionals to better help their patients and enrich their lives.

 

For example, caregivers will learn about your loved one’s interests before they developed this disease and adapt the way they can still engage in these meaningful activities. Sensory stimulation is also a crucial component of dementia care and your experienced caregiver will work to engage your loved ones in activities even as their interests and abilities change. 

 

One-to-one care 

 

In-home care is a much more personal option for people with dementia. It is often the same carer who will come and help your loved one daily and they will start to build their own relationship. As your carers only responsibility when with your loved one is them, you don’t have to worry about other distractions or the carer having to divide their time between numerous people like they would in a care home. 

 

In-home care provides assistance with activities of daily living, companionship and many other core services. It is an all-round tailored service that will be specific to your loved one and their needs. In-home care is designed to be customised providing as much or as little assistance as you require and changes can be made as often as necessary.

 

Speaking to someone about in-home care for your loved one with dementia

 

If after reading this you feel like in-home care is the best option for you and will work best for your loved one too then please don’t hesitate to reach out. Here at Companions of London, we offer a range of dementia and Alzheimers in-home care services. We have carers who specialise in dementia home care, they have the expertise and experience required to provide you with the best care services available. 

 

It isn’t uncommon for people to need help caring for dementia patients at home so never feel like you are alone. Whether you simply need short term help or you are looking for full-time support, we can provide you with a dementia companion who will take the pressure off of you and your family members.