Alzheimer's Care

Deciding to help a loved one with Alzheimer's disease is a great thing to do. There are many ways that families around Farmington, New Mexico, can lend a hand. One of them is by hiring a professional in-home caregiver. A caregiver from Visiting Angels Farmington who specializes in Alzheimer's care is trained in the needs of these seniors. Compassionate care is available at any stage.

Compassionate Alzheimer's Care at Home

Each of our caregivers approach Alzheimer's care with compassion. They are specifically trained to work with seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and they can also provide other services such as:

• Meal preparation
• Bathing and personal grooming
• Medication reminders
• Companionship

One of the symptoms our team is trained to handle is wandering. We understand that people wander for many reasons, most often because they need something or are feeling bored or restless. A caregiver will help a family create a safe wandering environment for a loved one, so they can move safely.

We do our best to make sure your loved one feels comfortable and safe. This may include learning important emotional anchors from family so that caregivers can use stories or memories to help seniors feel more at ease when distressed. A caregiver can also help a senior enjoy the hobbies they love but can’t do alone. Whatever comfort looks like for your loved one, our team is here to help.

Related Reading: Dementia and Wandering: How to Support Your Aging Loved One

Care at Each Stage of Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease has three stages of progression. Our compassionate caregivers are trained to provide support and care to seniors wherever they may be in the disease progression.

The Early Stage of Alzheimer's

The first stage of Alzheimer's is often considered mild. One may continue to live independently while experiencing memory lapses, including forgetting words or the placement of common items. There may also be some trouble with planning or organizing.

The Mid Stage of Alzheimer's

Mid-stage Alzheimer's often comes with an increase in symptoms, and seniors often need more assistance with daily tasks. Someone may struggle to express themselves or forget personal history. During this stage, some people with Alzheimer's begin to wander, have behavioral changes, and change their sleep patterns.

Late-Stage Alzheimer's

The final stage of Alzheimer's is the most severe. Many people need help with activities of daily living throughout the day, including personal care tasks such as bathing or dressing. A senior may have difficulty communicating and become less aware of their surroundings.

Related Reading: Preparing for Mid-State and Late-Stage Alzheimer's Care.

Providing Support for Seniors and Their Families

Visiting Angels caregivers are here to support those with Alzheimer's and their families as they navigate life with the condition. 24/7 care options are available, as well as other flexible care arrangements such as hourly, weekly, and overnight care. We do our best to adapt to a senior’s schedule so they get care when they need it.

Our caregivers are trained to notice changes in those we care for. When our team cares for your loved one and detects potential changes in their physical or emotional health, we let someone know. This can help catch illness early or allow a caregiver to de-escalate an emotional situation. For families that are far away, Long Distance Care gives them updates regularly so everyone feels comfortable.

Resting and Recovering as a Caregiver

Choosing to become a caregiver for a loved one is a wonderful thing to do. Every caregiver needs a break sometimes, and that’s where a professional caregiver can help. Our respite care services give a caregiver a chance to rest and recharge while one of our professional caregivers takes over care for a little while. This can be essential to maintaining good relationships between family members and reduce overall stress for the caregiver and the person receiving care.

Related Reading: Respite Care Can Support a Family Caregiver’s Well-Being.

Managing Emotions and Anger in Alzheimer's

Anger is a common symptom for many people with Alzheimer's. Some people have outbursts physically and emotionally that can be intense. Many family members aren’t sure how to handle these displays of emotion.

A Visiting Angels caregiver has the benefit of being outside the family unit, so they’re able to take a step back emotionally to help when these outbursts occur. Compassion is key. These outbursts may be an expression of pain, discomfort, confusion, or even overstimulation. We can de-escalate the situation and make plans to reduce how often these outbursts occur with the senior who's struggling.

Related Reading: Managing Dementia and Anger in a Senior Loved One.

Speak With Visiting Angels About Alzheimer's Care Today

If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and would prefer to continue living at home, consider at-home care with Visiting Angels Farmington. Our specially trained caregivers can provide support with emotional and physical components, so your loved one can get the care they need. We look forward to helping Farmington, New Mexico, families. Call 505-516-1150 or fill out our online form to speak with a care coordinator.