The many benefits of care at home for those living with dementia
Published: 24/11/2022
If you or a loved one have received a dementia diagnosis, then having professional care at your home is one of the options available. There are many benefits to receiving care at home, and we have outlined just a few of them below for you.
It allows you to stay in your home
One of the main benefits is that you can stay in your own home, which is often a concern for patients and loved ones early on in their diagnosis. This ensures that there is less disruption to your life and that you are still surrounded by the things that you love.
It supports and encourages your independence
Dementia affects a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks that most of us take for granted, such as dressing, eating, and managing the daily chores within their home. This stealing of independence can make you feel vulnerable and helpless and can also put added pressure on your friends and family. So, an important benefit of homecare is that it encourages and supports that independence, in the comfort and familiarity of the home environment. Dementia can feel like it’s taking a lot from a person, which is why you must get to keep as much control of your life as possible.
It offers peace of mind for your relatives and loved ones
Having homecare dementia support provides reassurance for your friends and relatives that their loved one is safe and able to function daily, which in turn, can make you feel less of a worry to others. Homecarers also understand the challenges that come with caring for someone with dementia, so they are on hand to offer expert advice and support. Maintaining a safe environment is crucial when you are living with dementia, and homecare provides this peace of mind. The carers will conduct regular risk assessments of your home and make any necessary adaptations to help keep the patient safe.
It provides respite care for loved ones
Homecare dementia support provides respite care for the person doing the day to day care, so that they have the chance to do things they need to with the knowledge that their loved one is safe. Sometimes dementia sufferers can feel like they are a burden on their relatives, so these opportunities can help to alleviate that worry by offering additional help with daily activities such as transportation to appointments, and emotional support.
It offers expert advice that delivers the best care for you
The homecare team are trained by experts when it comes to dementia care, so they will ensure that you get the most effective and safest care. They will also have access to local services that you or your relatives may not be aware of. This extensive knowledge of the services available in your area, can help put you in touch with organisations that provide additional support.
It delivers person-centred care
Person-centred care actively engages you directly in your care and focuses on your individual needs rather than providing a generalised approach. This is effective in making sure that your life doesn’t deviate too much from what you are used to and rely on. The carers put together a care plan based on personal information they have gaged from you and your loved ones, such as what you like to eat, and your preferred routines. Having this knowledge helps the caregiver to offer the best and most effective level of care. This care plan will be reviewed to ensure that it adapts as your diagnosis. It means that your care evolves with you. It also outlines your current level of functioning, as well as needs and problems which helps to explain the expected goals and outcomes, both for your family and the staff.
If you or your loved one needs dementia care at home, contact Right at Home as we have extensive experience and specialist knowledge when it comes to caring for Dementia patients. We would be happy to discuss your individual needs and put together a personalised care package for you.
Links to related blogs:
Comparing homecare services: What to look for
How to know when your elderly parent needs assistance at home