CarePlus

Category: Alzheimer’s

  • Aging in Place With Alzheimer’s

    Aging in Place With Alzheimer’s

    As an increasing percentage of the aging population elects to remain age in place, issues that arise with aging become an important factor in maintaining a healthy and safe lifestyle while remaining at home. Alzheimer’s is a disease that occurs most often in people 65 and older, and its progressive symptoms can have a devastating effect on the life of the person suffering from the disease as well as their loved ones. There are a few important measures that can be taken to make living at home a viable, long-term option.

    Know the Signs of Alzheimer’s

    Rather than being caught in a crisis because the disease has progressed without treatment or other measures to alleviate the problem, people over the age of 65 should be aware of the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s. According to the National Institute of Aging (part of the National Institutes of Health), some of the signs of mild Alzheimer’s include:

    • Memory loss that disrupts daily life
    • Poor judgment,  leading to bad decisions
    • Loss of spontaneity and sense of initiative
    • Losing track of dates or knowing current location
    • Taking longer to complete normal daily tasks
    • Repeating questions or forgetting recently learned information
    • Trouble handling money and paying bills
    • Challenges in planning or solving problems
    • Wandering and getting lost
    • Losing things or misplacing them in odd places
    • Difficulty completing tasks such as bathing
    • Mood and personality changes
    • Increased anxiety and/or aggression

    If you or a person you love is exhibiting several of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. An early diagnosis brings a range of benefits, from medical treatment to slow the progression of the disease to additional time and space to cope with the changes that come with dementia and other aspects of Alzheimer’s.

    Prepare the Home for Changing Needs

    Older people with Alzheimer’s don’t all manifest their disease in the same way. However, being aware of the existing or possible symptoms following a diagnosis makes it easier to assess the needs of the person and make changes in the home for increased comfort and safety. Installing safety bars in the bathroom, changing door knobs to levers and thinking strategically about locks, and rearranging closets, storage, and kitchens to make it easier to access regularly used items are some of the adjustments that may take some getting used to. As such, it is better to do them as soon as possible so that the person with Alzheimer’s can get accustomed to the changes. If you aren’t sure about what changes are a good idea, work with a professional to have a home safety assessment.

    Set Up Routines

    For both the person with Alzheimer’s and their caretakers and loved ones, the diminishing capacity to plan and execute on activities of daily living can impact health, safety, and comfort. By establishing routines around medication (sorting out doses and planning when to take it), bathing, eating, and other critical activities, the household becomes a stable environment that can be a source of comfort and familiarity for the person with Alzheimer’s and also makes it easier for primary caretakers to get occasional assistance. Writing down the routines and sticking to them gives the household more time for other activities that bring meaning and pleasure.

    Get Support

    Alzheimer’s is a devastating illness that impacts the life of patients and their loved ones. As the disease progresses, it can become increasingly necessary to help the patient with many aspects of their life. Meanwhile, the cognitive decline and emotional changes in the patient can be incredibly difficult. Families who want to allow their loved ones to stay at home should plan for the challenge by thinking of ways to get support. This can include letting neighbors know about the diagnosis so they can keep an eye out for the patient should they wander off. It can also include seeking respite care – which is available through local government agencies like The Arc Montgomery County or through professional providers with expertise in memory care.

    CarePlus provides a full range of homecare services to people in Montgomery County and surrounding areas. With caregivers trained in memory care, our team is able to offer compassionate, professional care that assures the safety and comfort of a loved one dealing with Alzheimer’s. We can begin with a complimentary in-home safety assessment. Contact us today to learn how we can be of service.

  • Living At Home With Alzheimer’s

    Living At Home With Alzheimer’s

    For adults with memory impairment like Alzheimer’s, change can be difficult, so it is no surprise that the prospect of moving out of the home and into a care facility is met with resistance. According to research published in the Journal of American Geriatrics, there has been an increased trend for people with dementia to prefer staying at home for as long as possible. However, staying at home presents some significant challenges, particularly for people who live alone. With some awareness and forethought, it is possible to stay at home. Here are some important considerations.

    Managing Activities of Daily Living

    As dementia progresses, many activities of daily living (ADL) become increasingly difficult. From grocery shopping to cleaning, household chores become confusing, and often they are neglected. In addition, personal care like bathing, dressing, and grooming can be forgotten or avoided. As dementia progresses, individuals require increasing assistance with ADLs, which may be beyond the capacity of family, especially if they don’t live together. It’s important to regularly assess the status of ADL abilities and make adjustments to meet increased needs. 

    Assuring Safety

    Individuals with Alzheimer’s suffer from progressive cognitive decline, which impacts many aspects of their safety. Something as simple as remembering to turn off a stove can be a major hazard for someone with memory and focus impairment. Since Alzheimer’s affects older adults, there can be physical challenges that are exacerbated by dementia, such as an inability to problem solve in the event of a medical emergency like a fall or a kitchen accident. Also, dementia can lead to “wandering” – where a person gets lost in their own neighborhood because they simply can’t remember where they live. With care and planning, each of these and many other safety elements can be addressed, and measures can be taken to adapt to increasing impairment as the disease progresses.

    Avoiding Isolation

    Loneliness and isolation are a problem for all people who live alone, but for people living with Alzheimer’s the consequences can have a real, negative impact on their continued ability to live in their own home. A recent Washington Post article identified a significant increase in individuals with Alzheimer’s who experienced isolation due to the COVID-19 protocols. Since dementia can make even simpler technologies difficult to manage, in-person contact is critical to the continued health and well being of people with Alzheimer’s. 

    In order to take care of these and other issues that impact people with Alzheimer’s living at home, we recommend beginning with a thorough assessment by a specialist in geriatric and memory-care concerns. The assessment should look at all of the factors in the home that might pose a difficulty or even a threat. Once the assessment is complete, there are a number of ways to address the findings. In-home care offered by trained specialists like our team at CarePlus Home Health can be an important part of the solution. Located in Montgomery County, our team is highly trained in the care, dignity and safety of our clients with Alzheimer’s. We offer in-home assessments as well as a wide range of customized services to best address the needs of each individual. Contact us to find out how we can help.

  • Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

    Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

    June is National Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. This month CarePlus Home Health took part in programming that helped us raise awareness and support for Alzheimer’s Disease. 

    Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive disease that damages memory and other important mental functions. Memory loss and difficulty thinking are common symptoms and contribute to mental decline. Some other symptoms are:

    • Problems with language, visualizing and spatial relationships 

    • Difficulty performing familiar tasks 

    • Disorientation with time and place

    • Poor judgment 

    • Attention issues

    • Changes in mood, behavior or personality  

    • Loss of desire or initiative

    Better Care, Better Health – Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter

     

     

    Our CarePlus Executive Director, Andrew Ryan, sat down with Sheila Griffith, Program Manager for the National Capital Area Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. They discussed all of the exciting programs coming up for the Alzheimer’s Association including the Longest Day and the Alzheimer’s Walk!

     

    The Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter offers many different resources to support you and your loved one in all stages of the disease. From support groups to educational programs, there is something to guide everyone through this difficult time. 

    CarePlus is here for you!

    Our services are adjusted to meet your needs. Whether you need us for a few hours a day, or 24/7, we can support you and your loved one. Our caregivers can help with memory care, lifestyle strategies, nutrition and daily living, physical stability, mobility and exercise, and fall prevention. 

     

    Let’s Get Started. Call us today at (301) 740-8870 or email us at info@careplusinc.com to discuss your needs. We are here 24/7 to help you.

  • Home Health Care: Five Things to Look for in a Provider

    Home Health Care: Five Things to Look for in a Provider

    It’s a difficult topic to discuss with your family and loved ones: the choice of a home health care provider. However, it is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. 

    So, in order to help guide the decision-making process for a home health care provider, here are five considerations:

    1. Is the staff experienced and licensed? : Thorough screening of prospective caregivers is a priority as you are ensuring the safety of your loved one in their care. Caregivers must have all the up-to-date, certifications, and licenses for the specific care that you require. Your caregiver should be experienced, professional, and compassionate. 
    2. How many years have they been in business? Every business has to start at some point in time yet a caregiver from a reputable company with years of experience is a plus when seeking care for your loved one. In-home health, companies that have been in business for numerous years may have higher retention rates and more experienced caregivers. In addition, established companies tend to have excellent training programs in place to retain compassionate caregivers and grow referrals. 
    3. What services do they offer? : If you are looking for nursing or supportive services, a comprehensive home healthcare provider should be able to deliver a wide variety of services.  Among those services may be hourly and live-in home care services either at home or at an assisted living facility or nursing home. Care Plus provides both in-home care and nursing home services. Our services are customized to meet the needs of the patient and their families. It may be a short-term or long-term plan. Avoid “cookie-cutter” or “one size fits all” service providers. Each patient is unique and deserves a customized plan that will meet their unique needs.
    4. What do the reviews say? : Reviews are a reliable resource that can be quite helpful to you as you weigh the different caregiving choices. Home health care providers that have been in business over the years, should have an extensive list of online reviews.   You can visit the www.caring.com, Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google My Business, and Facebook should have client reviews posted on their pages. The caregiver website should have testimonials posted, too. We also recommend that you call the caregiver and ask for references.
    5. What do they provide for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients? Make sure the caregiver offers services for Alzheimer’s or dementia patients. As older adults age this may be a need and having an In-Home Healthcare provider who is attuned to early signs of dementia is imperative. Check with the company to verify that the caregivers have specialized training in these health conditions.

    It will give you peace of mind knowing that they have the best care available. These five tips will prepare you for your next steps. If you should have any questions feel free to reach out.

    CarePlus Home Health, Inc. has experienced and compassionate home health caregivers. Call us at (301) 740-8870 for a consultation. We offer home care in the Montgomery County, MD area. 

  • Getting Help With Alzheimer’s:  Is It Time for Dementia Care?

    Getting Help With Alzheimer’s:  Is It Time for Dementia Care?

    Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It is irreversible and progressive; over time it erodes memory and thinking skills and the ability to perform simple functions. Alzheimer’s disease proceeds through several stages, and each stage requires a different type of care and support. When a person has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, they probably have two to four years before they will need dementia care. That is why the early stage is the ideal time for the family to make a care plan for the future. It allows the person with the disease to participate in the planning.

    The three stages of Alzheimer’s—preclinical, mild to moderate, and severe—are marked by different symptoms and different needs. A person in the preclinical stage may show few or no signs of having the disease. There may be minor memory lapses, like forgetting where things are kept, which most people experience with age or even stress. At this stage, testing may not show any indication of Alzheimer’s. The person may need minimal assistance, like help with remembering medications and paying the bills, but very often, they function well.

    In the mild to moderate stage, the person’s difficulty, not only with memory, but also with concentration becomes more noticeable. They may not be able to perform tasks or plan and organize projects. They may forget recent events or parts of their personal history, lose valuable objects, or show poor judgment with money or health habits.

    These symptoms increase over the next few years, during which friends and family may begin to see personality changes as well. The person may become moody or withdrawn, particularly when surrounded by people. A doctor’s examination at this stage will detect clear symptoms and render a diagnosis. At this point, a person with Alzheimer’s will need dementia care from trained caregivers.

    Families have a number of options for caregiving and support at this point. Adult day centers provide a safe environment during the day while family members are at work, as well as structure, mental and sensory stimulation, and the opportunity to socialize with other seniors. Many also provide meals and transportation. Home care services are another option that gives family caregivers much-needed breaks by providing supervision, meal preparation, medication reminders, and vital companionship in the person’s own home.

    As the disease progresses, more advanced home care will be called for. Home care allows a person with Alzheimer’s to remain at home among familiar surroundings, even when they need help dressing, eating, and bathing. (See Home care services  at CarePlus, Inc.)

    Dementia home care is geared specifically towards those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Dementia care offers the same assistance as regular home care, but in addition dementia, caregivers are familiar with the stages of the disease, what to expect from the person who has it, strategies to deal with behaviors that cause problems and safety issues related to these changes. A dementia care plan can be tailored specifically to the likes, dislikes, and personal needs of the person with Alzheimer’s and can also help them engage in activities that stimulate memory and interaction. (CarePlus, Inc. offers a specialized program for Alzheimer’s and dementia care.)

    A dementia caregiver can also help the family understand what is happening, how to respond, and how to head off interactions that tend to distress or agitate a person with Alzheimer’s. For example, it is helpful to provide a calm and orderly physical environment, to structure a day according to an older person’s energy levels and make the schedule consistent, and to provide and encourage sensory experiences like listening to music. It is not helpful to argue about facts or carry on a conversation with the television on. A dementia caregiver can help family and friends adjust to their loved one’s new needs.

    An assisted living community may be another option for an older person with Alzheimer’s. Assisted living allows an older person to live in a private apartment in a center or community with other seniors while being able to check in with round-the-clock staff and receiving on-site services such as dining, housekeeping, laundry, recreational and social activities, and transportation.

    Memory care units are also helpful for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia. A memory care unit is a floor or wing of a larger care residence with staff who have received specialized training in care for the special needs of people with Alzheimer’s and other memory problems and includes safety measures like secured exits.

    During the severe stage, a person with Alzheimer’s proceeds from memory loss to an inability to communicate or to sequence the steps for physical action or personal care. They may recognize faces, but not remember names or what their relationship to the person is. Personality and behavior changes may be compounded by delusions and paranoia. In the severe stage, patients can also wander and lose weight.

    If a person with Alzheimer’s is not already receiving 24-hour care at this stage, they will need to move to residential care or a nursing home. Nursing homes provide room and board, skilled nursing care, (see skilled nursing care available from CarePlus) and round-the-clock supervision.

    Almost 6 million people in the United States live with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Alzheimer’s alone is the sixth-leading cause of death in the country. There is currently no way to prevent it or cure it, but there are changes that people can make to better live with Alzheimer’s, and there are medications that help slow the progress of the disease and ameliorate symptoms.

    June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Individuals and organizations across the world are organizing activities and fundraisers to promote research and treatment for Alzheimer’s and training for caregivers and family members. These activities culminate in The Longest Day on June 21st—the summer solstice—organized by the Alzheimer’s Association to connect thousands of participants taking the action of their choice to fight Alzheimer’s disease. If you are planning an event or would like to, check in with the Alzheimer’s Association’s website at The Longest Day.

  • June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

    June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

    According to the Alzheimer’s Association, alz.org:

    Alzheimers’ disease affects approximately 5.7 million Americans today, 55 million of whom are over the age of 65.  It is the 6th leading cause of death (one in three adults will die from this disease) in the United States. 

    Here are a few more facts:

    • Ten percent of adults 65 or older have Alzheimer’s dementia.
    • Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women.
    • Older African-Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias as older whites.
    • Hispanics are about one and one-half times as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias as older whites.
    • Every 65 seconds an adult in the United States is afflicted with the disease.

             For more information see alz.org

    We can expect that these numbers will grow as our country ages–in disproportionately large numbers—causing billions of dollars in healthcare costs and unpaid caregiver hours.

     At this time, Alzheimer’s disease is the only disease in the top ten list of diseases in the United States that cannot be treated or cured. This month has been designated as Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness month to bring not only attention–but action–to fight this devastating and deadly disease.

    So, what can we do while we are waiting for a cure, vaccine or other medical intervention to prevent, stop or reverse this disease?

    According to Lisa Genova, neuroscientist and author of the book, Still Alice, the way we live influences our risk. In her April 2017 TED talk, Dr. Genova acknowledged that there is risk factors including: 50 years old or older, inherited genes, poor sleep habits and cardiovascular disease.

    She understands that while we cannot change our age or our genetic disposition, we can lower our risk through better sleep habits, exercising regularly and eating a heart healthy diet. 

    While we all know that exercise and a heart healthy diet are an important component for preventing almost all diseases, Dr. Genova adds yet another important component: strengthening neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve.  

    What is Neuroplasticity? It is the ability of the brain to develop and find multiple pathways to solve problems. Think of the brain as an intricate web of roads and streets. If one road is closed, or under construction, we need to take a different route to get to our destination. The brain will give us multiple routes if it is strong enough, it can give us resiliency when faced with a roadblock.  Dr. Genova presents a compelling look at how exercising the brain develops and maintains those multiple pathways.  Exercising the brain can strengthen our neuroplasticity and resiliency thus keeping our memories and cognitive awareness keen.  

    How do we strengthen our brain? We need to go beyond crossword puzzles and involve all our senses. Read a book, join a book club, make friends, learn to speak Italian, listen to educational seminars, take a class, do something enjoyable and unfamiliar. Learning new things rich in meaning and involving many of the senses is an ideal way to exercise the brain and have a positive impact on neuroplasticity and resiliency.

    So, go for it- try something new! Learn a new language, take up knitting, write a book, start a new hobby or take a cooking class. New experiences can keep you happy, healthy and exercise your brain.

    If you want to learn more, The Charles E Smith Life Communities, will be presenting an Evening with Lisa Genova on June 14- click here for more information.

     

     

  • National Family Caregivers Month

    National Family Caregivers Month

    It is no coincidence that the month of November is not only Thanksgiving, but also National Family Caregivers Month.

    Having two very important events in one month, provides us the opportunity to give thanks together with family and friends for all that we are grateful for, as well as the time to honor and thankfamily, friends and colleagues who volunteer their energy to provide care for others.

    Volunteer caregivers contribute countless hours of companionship, support for personal needs, and other related services to help loved ones in need of assistance. Very often these humble volunteers never identify themselves as caregivers, and as a result never take advantage of services and support systems available to them to help support all that they do. Caregivers can find their role rewarding and fatiguing, heartwarming or discouraging, all at the same time.

    Do you know someone who is a tireless caregiver? If so, help celebrate their contributions and thank them for all that they do to help so many in need. Acknowledge that caregiving can be rewarding, but lonely and stressful as well. Let them know that there are people ready to support them as they navigate all of the highs and lows of helping others. Share with them the gift of these Ten Tips from the Caregiver Action Network (caregiveraction.org):

    1. Seek support from other caregivers. You are not alone.

    2. Take care of your own health, so you can be strong enough to take care of your loved one.

    3. Accept offers of help and suggest specific things people can do to help you.

    4. Learn how to communicate effectively with doctors.

    5. Caregiving is hard work so take respite breaks often.

    6. Watch out for signs of depression and don’t delay getting professional help when you need it.

    7. Be open to new technologies to help you care for your loved one.

    8. Organize medical information so it’s up to date and easy to find.

    9. Make sure legal documents are in order.

    10. Give yourself credit for doing the best you can in one of the toughest jobs there is!

    We, too, at CarePlus want to take this opportunity to thank all of the family caregivers for giving so much of themselves to care for others. We know this is not an easy job for you and we are here to help you in a variety of ways. Visit CarePlus Resources Here. Please do not hesitate to contact us for support, resources and services at 301-740-8870.

    At this time of year, all of us at CarePlus want to wish you and your family a very Happy Healthy Thanksgiving filled with joy, good health and fun!

  • Celebrate the Month of May!

    Celebrate the Month of May!

    Spring has finally arrived and with it a month full of Welcome Celebrations.

    On May 14, we join all our family and friends as we honor Mothers and thank them for their endless love, care and support. A Mother’s love has no limits and she is often our greatest fan. Thank you to Mother’s everywhere!

    We continue the celebration on May 15, as we begin our 23rd year proudly serving Mother’s (and loved ones) in the Washington, DC area. For these last 22 years, we have provided home care to support your family member to live independently if possible. The CarePlus mission is dedicated to assisting seniors, with maintaining their independence in the comfort and safety of their own homes, wherever home may be. We want to ensure that we help your mom get up in the morning, so you can sleep at night.

    We have always placed families first, and will always continue to do so as we grow and provide the services most needed by those in our community. Over the years the needs have changed, and wbvcxe have worked to provide services that meet those needs. More adults choose to age in place, or the community. Our home health care model helps increase successful aging in the home.

    With an experienced and caring staff, we are ready to provide support at tough times such as hospitalization, post discharge, rehabilitation and/or hospice care. We also provide personal care including meal preparation, bathing, medication reminders, safety assessments and assistance with daily living services.

    Our specialty care includes support for medical conditions related to Alzheimer’s and dementia, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS); Cardiac Care; COPD/Pneumonia; Diabetes Management; Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.

    Our ongoing support services can help with Fall Prevention and our Skilled Nursing includes services for Medication Management, Wound Care, Ostomy Care Tube Feedings, Injections and Ventilator Care.

    We are here to provide that support for your Mother, you and your family when caring for a loved one.

    If you are experiencing a stressful situation or exploring future options for care, CarePlus is here to help, just call (301) 740-8870 to learn more.

  • Understanding a Dementia Diagnosis

    The Alzheimer’s Association’s Chief Programs officer recently posted a video that answers a variety of questions regarding a dementia diagnosis.  These questions include, “What does the diagnosis mean?” and “What do you do, say, and ask?”

    According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with everyday life.  There are different types of Dementia, and they include:
     
     
    Follow the links above to learn more about each individual condition, watch the video below, and contact us today with any questions regarding Dementia and home health care:
     

  • 15 Ways to Help Someone With Dementia Avoid Falling

    With fall here, it is an appropriate time to talk about the real danger that falls can present to many of our patients and loved ones. As we age, 15 Ways to Help Someone With Dementia Avoid Falling graphicwe begin to develop problems with depth perception and judgment, and our brain and body begin to have trouble coordinating signals. Our highly trained home caregivers are well versed in the danger falls can present, as well as catching warning signs and creating preventative measures. Here is a great article with just a few of those tricks for avoiding falls.

    “You can’t completely prevent falls — accidents do happen. Adults over age 65, and older adults with dementia in particular, are at a higher risk of falling, for some well-known reasons. These include a higher use of prescription drugs, more night waking, shuffling and other coordination problems, and weakening musculature and balance.

    Most falls in people with dementia are “multifactorial,” meaning that a combination of problems contributed to the fall. This makes it especially hard to eliminate falls altogether. But it’s almost always possible to identify risk factors that can be changed or risks that can be compensated for.

    What you can do…” Continue Reading >>

    If you are worried about falls and are located in Maryland call (301) 740-8870. We provide home care and home nursing services and offer free in-home evaluation!