How to Tell if Someone With Alzheimer’s Needs Assisted Living

Caring for a loved one with dementia presents unique challenges that can be overwhelming. It means coping not just with the loved one's illness and the huge life changes that will come, but with the caregiver's own feelings and struggles too.  Keeping a detailed journal is an organized way to record the progress and effects of the patient's dementia helpful information for their doctors. But it can also provide emotional and psychological benefits for caregivers themselves. Whether you're caring for someone with dementia or another illness, here are some things to consider when keeping a journal.  What To Track in Your Journal  Why record what the dementia patient is experiencing? Two reasons: because it will help their doctors and because it will help the caregiver understand and adapt to the effects of the disease.   Daily activities and behaviors: Note any changes in mood, unusual behaviors, or shifts in routine. This can help identify triggers for agitation or anxiety and reveal patterns or changes over time.   Medications and side effects: Record the times and doses of medications. If their medications change, note any side effects or noticeable changes in the person's condition. This can be crucial for managing the drugs' effectiveness and any potential drug interactions.   Eating and drinking habits: What and how much is your loved one eating and drinking? Tracking this information can help prevent malnutrition and dehydration, which are common issues in people with dementia.   Physical health and symptoms: Record any physical symptoms, such as coughs, changes in mobility, or signs of discomfort. This information can be vital for detecting emerging health issues that may not be directly related to dementia.   Sleep patterns: How much and how well are they sleeping? Do they wake up during the night? Sleep disturbances can exacerbate the symptoms of dementia and affect the health of both the caregiver and the patient.   Falls: Research shows that falls are not only more common among people with dementia, but they can also accelerate cognitive decline. Details about any falls-where, when, and how they occurred-are important information for the doctors.  Journaling: A Safe Space and a Helpful Tool  Keeping a journal helps the caregiver process the complex emotions they're likely experiencing. A journal is a private, safe space where the caregiver can express frustrations, celebrate successes, and acknowledge hardships. Journaling can help them protect their mental health stability, which in turn can help them feel better able to support their loved one effectively.  A journal can also be a place for the caregiver to track the effectiveness of care strategies and treatments. For example, the caregiver may notice that the timing of dinner is causing their loved one distress. Their notes can help them adjust their caregiving as needed.  The caregiver may even decide to keep two separate journals-one for themselves and the other journal (or calendar) about their loved one's condition.  "There is something about recording what is happening to us and our emotional reactions that enables family caregivers to stand apart from the onrush of tasks and crises they're immersed in," said Barry J. Jacobs in an article for AARP. A caregiver himself, Jacobs noted that journaling can help the writer "feel more in control."  How the Journal Can Help Doctors  A detailed journal is a valuable resource during medical appointments. It provides data and examples that help doctors understand the patient's current state beyond what a memory recall or short visit can reveal. This is crucial in diagnosing issues, adjusting medications, or changing treatment plans.  Doctors rely on accurate, detailed information to make informed decisions about treatments and care strategies. For example, if the journal shows that the patient has fallen repeatedly, the doctor may use that information to assess the patient's need for mobility aids, physical therapy, or further neurological evaluation. The doctor may end up identifying a treatable condition, such as an inner ear disorder or vision problems.  Moreover, the journal can help identify early signs of complications or side effects of medications that the patient might not be able to express because of their cognitive condition. This helps the doctor make a change before the complications cause a potentially serious health issue.  Write for Them and for Yourself  Keeping a journal is a simple yet effective tool that can greatly improve the caregiving experience for those managing the care of someone with dementia. You'll help not just your loved one, but yourself as well. Do it in whatever way works best for you. "This is not a school assignment," Jacobs reminds other caregivers. "No one is grading you. Just empty the contents of your mind without judging yourself." If you have any questions, please call Right at Home at 970-494-1111.

When searching for personal care homes, families often overlook the critical distinction between national chain organizations and local, family-owned and operated facilities. This difference can significantly affect the quality of life for residents. Family-owned personal care homes offer a unique, personalized experience that larger corporate entities often struggle to replicate. Let's explore the benefits of choosing a family-owned personal care home.The Personal Touch of Family-Owned Personal Care HomesFamily-owned personal care homes are typically founded with a mission that transcends profit. These homes are often established by families who have a personal investment in providing high-quality care, inspired by their own experiences with elder care. This personal touch translates into an environment that feels more like a home than an institution.Residents Come FirstIn family-owned personal care homes, the focus is on the residents rather than solely on business. These homes prioritize caring for both residents and staff, ensuring that the needs of individuals are met with compassion and understanding. By treating the business as an extension of their family, the quality of care reflects a genuine concern for residents, making them feel valued and respected.Hands-On LeadershipA standout feature of family-owned personal care homes is the active involvement of the owners in daily operations. This accessibility fosters open communication between residents, families, and staff. Owners who engage directly with the community help create a culture that feels like an extended family. This direct involvement not only motivates staff but also inspires a supportive and cohesive environment.Everyone Has a NameIn family-owned and operated personal care homes, every team member is empowered to make decisions and respond attentively to the needs of residents and their families. Unlike large corporations with multiple layers of management, family-owned homes maintain personal connections with both residents and staff. Employees are recognized as individuals with names and purposes, which is reflected in the quality of care provided.Benefits for Staff and ResidentsThe advantages of choosing a family-owned personal care home extend beyond the residents themselves. Staff members also experience a range of benefits that contribute to a positive work environment.Happy Staff, Happy ResidentsFamily-owned homes prioritize the well-being of their staff just as much as that of their residents. There is a clear correlation between satisfied staff and happy residents. In these homes, staff members are treated with respect and care, fostering a nurturing environment. When team members face personal challenges, the entire community comes together to provide support, leading to a harmonious atmosphere that benefits everyone involved.Fair PricingFamily-owned personal care homes often have the flexibility to offer more affordable pricing compared to national chains. Their business decisions are based on caring for residents and staff as part of their family, rather than solely on financial gain. While cost is a significant consideration in choosing a personal care home, family-owned facilities frequently provide a more cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.Enhanced Family RelationshipsFamily-owned homes not only benefit residents and staff but also enhance family relationships. By sharing caregiving responsibilities with professionals, families can focus on spending quality time with their loved ones rather than being overwhelmed by caregiving tasks. This shift allows for more meaningful interactions and the creation of lasting memories.Choosing a family-owned personal care home offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance the quality of life for older adults and their families. The personalized care, hands-on leadership, and strong community ties inherent in these homes provide a nurturing setting that promotes well-being and peace of mind. For families seeking a compassionate and resident-centered approach to elder care, family-owned personal care homes represent an invaluable option.If you feel that a family-owned personal care home might make a great option for you, or your loved one - we would love to meet you!  Contact Lindsey Jester today at 330-692-8628.

In the realm of senior care, the choice between a national chain and a family-owned personal care home can significantly impact the quality of life for residents and their families. Family-owned personal care homes offer a unique blend of personalized care, community integration, and emotional warmth that larger corporate facilities often struggle to replicate. Family-owned personal care homes are often established with a mission that transcends profit. These homes are typically founded by individuals or families who have a personal stake in providing high-quality care, often inspired by their own experiences with elder care. This personal investment translates into a care environment that feels more like a home than an institution.Personalized and Resident-Centered CareOne of the primary benefits of family-owned personal care homes is their ability to offer personalized, resident-centered care. Unlike larger facilities, where care can be standardized and impersonal, family-owned homes can tailor their services to meet the specific needs and preferences of each resident. This approach ensures that residents receive the attention and care they deserve, fostering a sense of dignity and respect.A Homelike EnvironmentFamily-owned personal care homes often provide a more homelike and comfortable environment compared to larger corporate facilities. The smaller scale of these homes allows for a more intimate setting where residents can form close relationships with staff and fellow residents. This sense of community can be incredibly beneficial for older adults, promoting social interaction and reducing feelings of isolation.Benefits for FamiliesThe advantages of choosing a family-owned personal care home extend beyond the residents themselves. Families also experience a range of benefits that can ease the transition and ongoing experience of having a loved one in care.Peace of MindKnowing that their loved ones are in a nurturing and attentive environment provides families with peace of mind. Family-owned homes often have a reputation for being more responsive and accessible, with owners and managers directly involved in day-to-day operations. This involvement ensures that any concerns or issues can be addressed promptly and personally.Enhanced Family RelationshipsWhen the burden of caregiving is shared with professionals in a family-owned personal care home, family relationships can improve. Families are free to focus on spending quality time with their loved ones rather than being overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities. This shift can lead to more meaningful interactions and the creation of lasting memories.Cost-EffectivenessWhile cost is always a consideration, family-owned personal care homes can offer a more cost-effective solution compared to larger facilities or home modifications. These homes typically include a comprehensive package of services, which can be more economical than hiring private caregivers or adapting a home to meet an older adult's needs.The Impact on StaffA family-owned personal care home not only benefits residents and their families but also positively impacts the staff who work there.Empowered and Engaged StaffIn family-owned settings, staff members are often empowered to make decisions and respond to the needs of residents and their families. This empowerment leads to a more engaged and motivated workforce, which directly translates into better care for residents. Staff members in these environments are more likely to feel valued and respected, which enhances their job satisfaction and performance.A Sense of CommunityWorking in a family-owned personal care home often feels like being part of an extended family. The close-knit nature of these homes fosters a supportive work environment where staff members know each other and the residents personally. This familiarity and camaraderie can lead to a more harmonious and effective care environment.Choosing a family-owned personal care home offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance the quality of life for older adults and their families. The personalized care, homelike environment, and strong community ties inherent in these homes provide a nurturing setting that promotes well-being and peace of mind. For families seeking a compassionate and resident-centered approach to elder care, family-owned personal care homes represent an invaluable option.Learn more about REWARD Senior Care and what makes our community unique as a family-owned and run personal care home in Turtle Creek.  We would love to meet you!  Contact us for a tour today.