Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care in Lakeview – Chicago

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia

The terms “Alzheimer’s disease” and “dementia” are often used interchangeably; however, they have slightly different meanings. Dementia is a general term for conditions that result in cognitive and memory decline, while Alzheimer’s disease is a specific type of dementia. It is also the most prevalent form of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of all cases.

All types of dementia are progressive, with symptoms worsening over time. Initial signs may include short-term memory loss, which can be mistaken for normal aging. Providing appropriate care from skilled caregivers is essential for improving the quality of life for individuals with dementia. Recognizing symptoms of dementia early helps ensure that your loved ones get the care they need to live a better quality of life as the disease progresses.

Here are signs of dementia you should look for:

• Forgetfulness: Short-term memory issues are a sign of normal aging as well as a possible early sign of dementia. Your loved one may be in the early stages of dementia if these issues increase in frequency.
• Wandering: Wandering in a state of confusion is a common behavior of dementia patients which can be dangerous if your loved ones have a high risk of falling or manage to leave their home.
• Agitation: Dementia patients can sense their limitations and may lash out with outbursts of agitation and mood swings.
• Incontinence: Those affected lose control of their bodies in the later stages which can lead to issues like incontinence.

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care from Assisting Hands

Our dementia care services begin with a comprehensive assessment of your loved one’s condition and unique care needs. The care plan is personalized to accommodate their specific needs and can be modified as their condition evolves. Our trained caregivers utilize positive reinforcement techniques to manage mood swings and agitation, while also providing engaging activities to stimulate cognitive function and memory.

We can include the following with our dementia care services in Lakeview, IL:

• Companionship: Our caregiver will build a personal connection and be a companion for your loved one so they will be a familiar, friendly face your loved one can trust.
• Personal care: It may be difficult for seniors with dementia to take care of themselves and handle tasks like bathing and getting dressed. Our caregivers will help them with self-care tasks including personal hygiene activities like bathing and dressing as well as eating, transferring, and toileting.
• Medication reminders: Our caregivers will ensure your loved ones take their medications by providing medication reminders.
• Meal preparation: Seniors with dementia should not attempt to cook as this can be very dangerous. Our caregivers will prepare meals that adhere to their dietary requirements.
• Wandering: We will accompany your loved ones if they begin to wander to ensure they move around the home safely without falling and to prevent them from leaving the home.

Call Assisting Hands Home Care for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care in Lakeview, IL

To start our dementia care services, we will arrange a complimentary in-home assessment. This assessment is crucial in identifying the unique needs of your loved one and allows us to develop a tailored care plan. Our dedicated caregivers strive to ensure the safety and well-being of your loved ones within the comfort of their own home.

For further details regarding our Alzheimer’s and dementia care services in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, IL, please contact us at (312) 548-3690.