Article Library Video Library Definitions

Dementia, Alzheimer’s and Sundowner’s Syndrome

Author

BrightStar Care

Posted on

Jan 23, 2024

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

Email US

Click to Email Us

Did you know that nearly seven million adults in the U.S. over the age of 65 are living with dementia? By 2060, that number is projected to be almost 14 million(Opens in a new window). One in three seniors dies with dementia, that’s more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. More than 11 million people in the United States serve as unpaid caregivers for people with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, providing an estimated 18 billion hours of care each year.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a general term for cognitive decline that can be caused by several different neurodegenerative disorders affecting the brain and causing damage to brain cells. A person with dementia has difficulties with cognitive function, including reasoning, judgment and memory. While some cognitive decline is common in aging, dementia is not a normal part of aging.

People who have dementia typically have some memory loss and difficulty in at least one other area, such speaking and writing coherently, understanding what is said or written, recognizing familiar surroundings, and accomplishing multi-step tasks. Early signs of dementia include mild changes in the ability to think and learn, but because a person in early stage dementia can still participate in daily activities and dialogue, it may appear to others that the person does not have dementia.

What triggers anger in dementia patients?

Sometimes, a person with dementia will become suddenly verbally or physically aggressive. This can happen for no apparent reason or as the result of a frustrating situation. Physical discomfort, environmental factors and lack of communication can cause a person with dementia to become agitated, but remembering that it’s not the person’s fault can help you cope more effectively. When dealing with dementia and anger, try to identify the immediate source of the anger or aggression and make sure it is not pain. Focus on the person’s feelings and stay calm. Try transitioning to a relaxing activity, like music, massage or exercise, and limit distractions. If you need to walk away and take a moment for yourself, do so, but only after making sure your loved one is safe.

Alzheimer's vs. Dementia

Irreversible dementia is chronic and progressive, and the most common type of irreversible dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of all cases. However, while Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia, all dementia is not Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease that comes on slowly and worsens over time. The most common early sign of Alzheimer's is trouble with memory, because that is the part of brain affected first. The early stages of Alzheimer's can last for years, but as the condition advances, symptoms get more advanced. Disorientation, confusion and behaviour changes are common symptoms, and as Alzheimer's progresses to the end stages, speaking, swallowing and walking become difficult.

What is Sundowning?

Also called Sundowner’s Syndrome, sundowning is agitation and restlessness that typically occurs late in the day. The reasons behind sundowning are not well understood, but certain factors can trigger it. These may include unmet physical needs like tiredness, hunger, or pain, lack of sunlight exposure during the day, overstimulation or disturbance to the person’s body clock from damage occurring in the brain. Disturbed levels of hormones, sensory impairment, or depression, or side effects of prescribed drugs can also cause sundowning.

Pay attention to signs of sundowning, like increased confusion or anxiety, pacing, wandering, yelling, rocking in a chair or crying. Try to determine the cause of the behaviour and listen calmly to your loved one’s concerns, offering reassurance. Reduce noise and clutter, try distractions and strive to make early evening a quiet time of day, playing soothing music, softening the lights, reading or going for a walk. You can also reduce the risk of sundowning by helping the person get some sun exposure and regular exercise and sleep enough at night. Avoid serving caffeine and alcoholic drinks, and do not plan too many activities in one day.

Tips for Caring for a Senior with Dementia

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be stressful. At times, the challenges faced by a family caring for someone living with dementia can be heart-breaking. Expert caregiving tips can be very helpful, like the following.

Make sure the home is safe. Depending on your loved one’s condition and stage of disease, there are different levels of safety measures you will need to put into place. Remove trip hazards like throw tugs, as dementia patients face fall risks. Provide mobility assistance, using walkers and grab bars. Hide the car keys because most people with dementia should not drive. Only allow outdoor access in protected, enclosed areas, and install a sturdy shower chair, to support unsteadiness. Talk to your loved one’s care provider about additional safety measures you should take.
Put a routine in place. It is important for a person with dementia to have a routine, with a planned day that allows more time for activities that provide meaning and enjoyment. Bathing, dressing, meals and sleep times should be consistent every day.
Make mealtime simple. People with dementia experience changes in spatial awareness, vision, attention and sometimes temperature tolerance. This can make mealtime overwhelming, but you can make it easier by following a few guidelines. Reduce distractions and choose plates that contrast with the food and table setting. Don’t use patterned tablecloths and placemats because it can be confusing and make it difficult for the person to distinguish the food from the setting. When served multiple foods they can find it hard to decide on which food to eat first. Offering one or two foods at a time can help alleviate confusion.
Anticipate sundowning. A phenomenon known as sundowning is associated with day turning to night, and this can cause a person with dementia to experience increased confusion, memory loss and irritability. Symptoms of sundowning include crying, agitation, restlessness, depression and pacing. By understanding and anticipating this, you can reduce the risk by sticking to a routine and providing an activity, like a puzzle or board game, to occupy the person’s attention.
Give your loved one reasonable independence. It is important to involve someone living with dementia as much as possible in daily activities, allowing the person to perform as many tasks as he or she can. This serves the dual purpose of keeping the person occupied while also providing tactile and mental stimulation to promote a sense of calm.
Avoid arguing. Because a person with dementia does not have the ability to reason and think the same way other people do, arguing will only cause upset. Rather than arguing, divert your loved one’s attention to a task.
Keep naps to a minimum. Avoiding long or multiple naps during the day can minimize the risk of creating abnormal sleep patterns and sundowning.
Make the most of music. Make your loved one a playlist of favorite songs from when he or she was young. Music from their youth can help people with dementia regain some of their old personality. Further, a recent study determined that listening to meaningful music can actually make small changes in the brain’s neural pathways, which could improve memory for dementia patients. Provide comfortable headphones to avoid sensory overload and eliminate any competing noises.
Practice self-care. While you are caring for others, make sure you also take care of yourself. If you don’t give yourself time to rest and recharge, you may be too exhausted to provide the best care for your loved one. If you are having trouble finding time for self-care, respite care can be a great option to give you a break from caregiving to focus on other things for a little while.
Try not to take it personally. As dementia progresses, your loved one will get more confused and forgetful, and they may even forget who you are. It doesn’t mean that the person loves you any less, or even that all the memories you have shared are gone. Older memories tend to last the longest.
Asking for help. Partnering with a home care agency can help alleviate the pressure on family members. Professional caregivers trained to understand and manage dementia-specific behaviours can ease the burden on the family and provide care and support to the person with dementia.

BrightStar Care® Provides Expert Alzheimer's and Dementia Care

At BrightStar Care, we keep up with evolving research so that we can give our clients the very best care. We are committed to providing home care services for all stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, assisting clients and their families when they need our care. When you need help meeting the physical, mental and emotional needs of an older relative, trust BrightStar Care for excellence in home health care.

Find a BrightStar Care® Location Near You

Looking for in-home care services or assisted living for your loved one or a reliable medical staffing partner for your organization? Our experienced local care team members are ready to help. Find a location near you, contact us online, or call 866.618.7827 to speak with a local care expert and learn more about how BrightStar Care offers A Higher Standard®.

Other Articles You May Like

Behind the Scenes of Professional Caregiving

Professional caregiving is a noble and gratifying career that requires dedication, compassion, and a commitment to providing quality care and support to aging, ill, and disabled individuals. While the role of a caregiver may seem straightforward to the uninitiated, a lot goes on behind the scenes that shapes the day-to-day experiences of these essential healthcare workers. Read on to explore what it means to be a professional caregiver in Cape Coral, including caregivers who work through a caregiving agency.Common Professional Caregiving Job TitlesNearly five million strong, professional caregivers work in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, residential care facilities, and private residences. There are several different types of professional caregivers, each specializing in a specific area of care to meet the diverse needs of their clients.Here are some of the more common ones:Home Health Aides (HHAs): While working with nurses and therapists, these professionals provide personalized care and support to individuals in their homes. HHAs assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication reminders.Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses to provide basic healthcare services to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare environments. A CANs responsibilities may include feeding and mobility assistance, personal care, and monitoring client vital signs.Personal Care Aides (PCAs): PCAs offer non-medical assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions. These direct caregivers assist clients with personal care tasks ranging from grooming and toileting to meal preparation and companionship.Agency Caregivers: Many professional caregivers, especially CNAs, fall within this category. Agency-supplied caregivers are often contracted out to nursing homes on a short-term basis, while others work in private residences or hospices.Professional Caregiving Requires Training and PreparationOne of the fundamental aspects of professional caregiving is the comprehensive training and preparation involved. Aspiring caregivers undergo training programs that cover a wide range of topics, including basic caregiving skills, communication techniques, infection control protocols, and more. This intensive training equips caregivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective care to their clients.Once certified, caregivers can take advantage of continuing education and professional development opportunities that help them hone their skills and stay current with best practices. This continuous learning process allows caregivers to adapt to their clients changing needs and provide a high level of care in all types of settings.The Role of Professional Caregiving Agencies in Cape CoralCaregivers who work through an agency can expect to receive valuable support and resources to help them succeed in their roles. Caregiving agencies typically have dedicated support staff, including schedulers, coordinators, trainers, and supervisors, who work closely with caregivers to ensure they have the tools and resources they need to thrive in their roles.Schedulers play a vital role in matching caregivers with clients based on their skills, availability, and preferences. By carefully coordinating schedules and assignments, schedulers help ensure caregivers can provide consistent and reliable care to their clients while enjoying a healthy work-life balance. Coordinators serve as a point of contact for caregivers, offering guidance, support, and assistance with any challenges they may encounter while on the job.Caregiving is All About RelationshipsIn addition to collaborating with colleagues and supervisors, working closely with clients and their families is essential for those in the caregiving profession. Caregivers must establish strong relationships with their clients, providing physical care, emotional support, and companionship. Building trust and rapport with clients is essential for creating a positive caregiving experience and fostering a sense of security and well-being.Professional caregivers are also required to interact with family caregivers, many of whom play a vital role in the caregiving process, providing valuable insights into their loved ones preferences, routines, and medical history. Caregivers work closely with families to create personalized care plans that address each clients unique needs and preferences. Maintaining open communication and involving families empowers caregivers to provide their clients with the best care and support possible.The Challenges and Rewards of Professional CaregivingProfessional caregiving requires the ability to navigate a range of emotions, situations, and responsibilities daily. Depending on the day, caregivers may encounter hurdles like managing complex medical conditions, dealing with behavioral issues, and coping with the emotional toll of caring for clients facing significant health challenges including end-of-life trials.Despite these challenges, professional caregiving is also incredibly rewarding, offering caregivers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. The relationships caregivers build with clients are often deeply rooted and profound, providing a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond the typical job. Caregivers witness firsthand the positive impact of their care and support, creating lasting bonds that enrich both their lives and the lives of others in the community.Caregiving and Self-Care: A Winning CombinationWhile it is highly gratifying, caregiving can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Caregivers must prioritize self-care to maintain their health and well-being, empowering them to continue providing the top-notch care and support their clients deserve.Implementing self-care best practices, including regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate rest, and stress management techniques, can help caregivers maintain their energy levels and emotional resilience. When necessary, caregivers should seek support from colleagues, supervisors, and loved ones, as well as take advantage of counseling services or support groups.In conclusion, professional caregiving is a noble and gratifying career that requires a unique combination of skills, compassion, and dedication. Caregivers play a vital role while serving on the frontlines of the American healthcare system, assisting aging, ill, and disabled individuals. Behind the scenes of professional caregiving lies a world of training, support, resources, and personal connections that shape the experiences of caregivers everywhere. Take a moment today to thank a caregiver in your life. Theyll be glad you did!Is Professional Caregiving Your Career Calling? Lets Have a Conversation.Whether you are new to the caregiving game or a seasoned pro, Home Instead in Cape Coral would love to speak with you. At Home Instead Cape Coral, we understand that our caregivers are the lifeblood of our organization. Due to our expanding client load, we are currently seeking qualified candidates to fill several exciting caregiving positions. While proudly serving the Cape Coral, Alva, Boca Grande, Bokeelia, Burnt Store Marina, Matlacha, and North Captiva Island communities, we support clients and families with compassionate home care services, including Alzheimers and Dementia Care, Arthritis Care, Companionship Care, Diabetes Care, Elder Care, Home Helper Services, Hospice Care, Meals and Nutrition, Personal Care, Respite Care, 24-Hour Home Care, and Transportation.As a highly valued member of the Home Instead Cape Coral team, youll enjoy a fast-paced, positive work environment where open communication is valued and hard work is rewarded. We also offer competitive pay, flexible scheduling, ongoing caregiver training, and career advancement opportunities galore. No matter your experience level or education, wed love to hear from you! To learn more about Home Instead Cape Coral and our dynamic professional caregiving jobs, visit us now at www.homeinsteadswfl.com.

What Does Homeowners' Insurance Cover?

For those who own a home in Florida, having a good grasp of homeowners' insurance is essential. It not only offers peace of mind but also safeguards one of your most significant investments. At LP Insurance Solutions, we specialize in guiding you through the intricacies of homeowners' insurance. This detailed guide will address common queries like what homeowners' insurance entails, its cost implications, and specific information on typical damages. Let's review the fundamentals of homeowners' insurance to ensure you're well-informed and adequately shielded.What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?Homeowners' insurance is created to protect against various risks and damages that your property may encounter. The coverage usually encompasses: Dwelling Coverage: This safeguards the structure of your house, encompassing the roof, walls, and installed appliances. Should perils like fire, windstorms, or hail cause damage to your home, dwelling coverage assists in covering repair costs or reconstruction. Other Structures Coverage: This segment of the policy addresses structures not connected to your home, such as detached garages, sheds, or fences. Personal Property Coverage: This insurance safeguards your personal possessions within your house, such as furniture, electronics, clothes, and other items. If any of these belongings are stolen or damaged due to a covered incident, this coverage assists in replacing them. Liability Protection: This is essential in case someone gets injured on your property or if you accidentally harm someone else's property. It covers legal expenses and potential settlements. Additional Living Expenses (ALE): In the event that your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered incident, ALE covers the expenses for temporary housing, food, and other living costs while your home is being repaired. For more details on the specific coverages, visit our homeowners' insurance coverage page.How Much is Homeowners Insurance?The cost of homeowners' insurance can vary depending on several factors: Location: Living in Cape Coral, Florida, near the coast can impact premiums due to the risks associated with hurricanes and flooding. Home Value and Construction: The size, age, and building materials used in constructing your home significantly influence insurance costs. Coverage Limits and Deductibles: Higher coverage limits and lower deductibles lead to higher premiums. Personal Factors: Your credit score, claims history, as well as safety features like security systems and smoke detectors, can affect the overall cost of insurance. On average, Florida homeowners could expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 per year for a standard insurance policy. However, the actual cost may vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned earlier. To get a more accurate quote, visit our homeowners' insurance cost page or contact LP Insurance Solutions.

Avow Care Services Selected by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to Test Medicare Dementia Care Model

Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model Aims to Increase Care Coordination, Support for CaregiversNAPLES, FL (July 10, 2024) Today, Avow Care Services announced they have been selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to participate in a new Medicare alternative payment model designed to support people living with dementia and their caregivers. Under CMS Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model, Avow will be one of almost 400 participants building Dementia Care Programs (DCPs) across the country, working to increase care coordination and improve access to services and supports, including respite care, for people living with dementia and their caregivers.CMS is excited to partner with Avow under the GUIDE Model, said CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. GUIDE is a new approach to how Medicare will pay for the care of people living with dementia. The GUIDE participants are envisioning new ways to support not only people living with dementia, but also to reduce strain on the people who care for them, so that more Americans can remain in their homes and communities, rather than in institutions.Launched on July 1, 2024, the GUIDE Model will test a new payment approach for key supportive services furnished to people living with dementia, including: comprehensive, person-centered assessments and care plans; care coordination; 24/7 access to an interdisciplinary care team member or help line; and certain respite services to support caregivers. People with dementia and their caregivers will have the assistance and support of a Care Navigator to help them access clinical and non-clinical services such as meals and transportation through community-based organizations."Our acceptance into the GUIDE Model emphasizes Avow's commitment to excellence in dementia care and our dedication to the communities we serve," said Jaysen Roa, President and CEO of Avow, Inc. "We are eager to implement this model, which aligns with our mission to offer support not only to our patients but also to their caregivers, enhancing both their well-being and quality of life."Avow participation in the GUIDE Model will help people living with dementia and their caregivers have access to education and support, such as training programs on best practices for caring for a loved one living with dementia. The GUIDE Model also provides respite services for certain people, enabling caregivers to take temporary breaks from their caregiving responsibilities. Respite is being tested under the GUIDE Model to assess its effect on helping caregivers continue to care for their loved ones at home, preventing or delaying the need for facility care.GUIDE Participants represent a wide range of health care providers, including large academic medical centers, small group practices, community-based organizations, health systems, hospice agencies, and other practices.This model delivers on a promise in the Biden Administrations Executive Order on Increasing Access to High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers and aligns with the National Plan to Address Alzheimers DiseaseAbout Avow: Avow was founded in 1983 as Collier County's original, nonprofit hospice. Today, Avows nonprofit companies provide palliative care for adults and children facing chronic or serious illness and hospice care and bereavement support services for children and adults. To learn more about the scope of services provided by Avow, call 239-261-4404 or visit our website.

View Details

BrightStar Care of Naples & Ft. Myers

Non-Medical 2545 Northbrooke Plaza Drive, Naples, Florida, 34119

BrightStar Care is a leading in-home care agency that has been serving Lee and Collier counties since 2006. With a wealth of experience spanning 18 years, we have become a trusted name in providing compassionate and professional care to individuals within the comfort of their own homes. At BrightStar Care, we offer a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of our clients, including both Medical and Non-Medical Care. Our non-medical care, also referred to as non-skilled care, includes assistance with IADLs such as transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders light housekeeping, laundry and ADLs such as assistance with personal care needs, transferring, and feeding. Our medical care, also referred to as skilled care, services encompass more complex medical needs with care being provided by an LPN or RN. Some of the Skilled services we offer include case management, medication management, medication administration and teaching, wound care and wound vac, disease education and monitoring, IV treatments and line maintenance, catheter and ostomy care, home safety evaluation and much more. In addition to non-skilled and skilled care, BrightStar Care takes pride in offering physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) services. Our team of licensed therapists collaborates closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, aiding in the restoration of independence, improvement of mobility, and enhancement of overall quality of life. Another aspect that sets BrightStar Care apart is our medical staffing services. We understand the significance of having qualified and reliable healthcare professionals in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Through our medical staffing solutions, we provide healthcare organizations with certified nursing assistants, skilled nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals on either a temporary or permanent basis. As an organization, we hold the prestigious Joint Commission Accreditation, which represents the gold standard in healthcare. This accreditation validates our commitment to delivering the highest standard of in-home care through quality and safety. Our dedication to providing top-notch care is further exemplified by our rigorous care team member selection and training processes. We carefully choose and train our care team members to ensure they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and compassion to provide exceptional care to our clients. Furthermore, our thorough screening process, including background checks, drug testing, and reference verifications, instills peace of mind in our clients. Additionally, all our care team members undergo extensive hands-on training with our Director of Nursing, which includes comprehensive skills review, disease-specific training programs, as well as Dementia Live and our own Alzheimer's training called Bright Connections. What truly distinguishes us, however, is our genuine commitment to providing personalized care tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Our Rns create a comprehensive personalized plan of cares for each client. We believe in cultivating meaningful relationships with our clients and their families, creating a warm and supportive environment that promotes overall well-being which is why we created our own program called Purposeful Engagements.In recognition of our efforts to provide peace of mind to clients and their families, BrightStar Care has received numerous awards, including the Home Care Pulse awards for Provider of Choice, Employer of Choice, and Leader in Excellence. When it comes to in-home care, BrightStar Care is the agency of choice for those seeking exceptional care, compassion, and support. Our mission is to enhance the lives of our clients, enabling them to live comfortably and independently in their own homes through delivering a higher standard of in home care and providing peace of mind. Having proudly served Lee and Collier counties for over 18 years, we are excited to continue delivering exceptional in-home care services to our community.