Discovering that you or your loved one has Alzheimer’s, or any other source of dementia, can send many thoughts through your mind. What should you do, what will this mean for the future, what adjustments are necessary, and more. The diagnosis is understandably overwhelming for the recipient and anyone close to them. Depending on what stage someone is at, they may benefit from professional care as soon as possible.
If you think you or a loved one may benefit from at-home dementia care, contact us. We will work to match you with the right at-home care professionals. If you would rather learn more first, read below.
For those who have never known anyone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, there may be confusion surrounding what sets this specific care apart from other forms. To understand the difference, it is important to understand these diseases first.
Alzheimer’s is a specific disease that causes dementia due to the ongoing brain damage it causes. Dementia—though often synonymous with memory loss—is a term for a group of symptoms which encompass various aspects of cognitive decline.
Care strategies for people with these diagnoses entails a care professional with a deeper knowledge of these diseases, as well as methods to lessen symptom severity. The Alzheimer’s Association provides a useful breakdown of these stages that we will use to help you understand care needs at every step of the way.
It is important to keep in mind that these stages are general guidelines, not hard boundaries, for disease progression. There can be a fair bit of overlap amongst stages depending on how far the disease has progressed.
Someone in this stage of the disease may remain undetected/undiagnosed, especially if they are the first in the family to develop it. Even people who know what to look for could end up missing this stage and the opportunity to start dementia care early.
In this stage you might see:
In this stage, care would be relatively hands-off. One of the main concerns would be ensuring the care recipient’s independence is preserved as much as possible. The type of care that is most helpful in this stage would be helping the recipient stay up to date with any pressing needs, as well as getting any treatment necessary to slow disease progression.
This stage is the longest out of the three, which is why you may see overlap between stages. At this point, someone might experience:
While not everyone in this stage will need 24-hour care, they will likely benefit from it. At-home dementia care in this stage would focus on preserving quality of life through support of daily self-maintenance tasks.
One exceptional care option is ComForCare’s DementiaWise program. This program offers extensive support to individuals suffering from dementia, regardless of what type. Another aspect that makes it unique is the support it provides family members as well; our staff provides family members with education on dementia and its symptoms, as well as strategies on how to cope with this significant change.
When Alzheimer’s or dementia enters the late stage, it usually indicates that there is now extensive brain damage. This typically correlates to significant impairment, such as:
People at this stage should have consistent, round-the-clock care. The priority should be the care recipient’s comfort, which is why many loved ones also look into palliative care options.
If you have a family history of Alzheimer’s or dementia, staying vigilant and proactive are your best ways of ensuring you can identify and address a diagnosis quickly. If your family is going through the changes of a recent diagnosis, it's common to be overwhelmed with what to do next.
At ComForCare, we know how to make this transition easier on both you and your diagnosed loved one. Contact us today to discuss your care options – let’s start making a plan that works best for you or your loved one.
By Phara Lafortune-Morame, LCSW, MCAP, EMDR cert., QS.There are many reasons that significant moments are often celebrated with a drink. But during the holidays, otherwise-celebratory toasts can be triggers for people who struggle with substance use disorder, including seniors.Some families and cultures have holiday traditions that lean heavily on alcohol consumption. Family recipes for festive cocktails and toasts before dinners reinforce the idea that consumption is part of connecting with loved ones and embracing the holiday spirit.The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States notes that a quarter of the $49-billion-a-year distilled spirits industrys profits come from the month between Thanksgiving and the New Year. Another study notes that the average American drinks 27% more during the holiday season compared to the rest of the year.As a result, the stress and anxiety associated with the holiday season can result in increased consumption or return to drug and alcohol use for those currently in recovery, particularly for older residents, who tend to suffer from depression more during the holidays. Many studies note that nearly half of individuals recovering will return to use during the holiday season.The prevalence of substances in celebrations often mixes badly with the elevated depression and stress the holidays can bring. Expectations for creating and experiencing holiday joy are at the center of potential substance use triggers. When mixed with emotional turmoil, financial stress, loneliness, grief, nostalgia, and dysfunctional and complex family relationships, this can create a desire to seek temporary escape from overwhelming feelings through substances. For those aged 65 and older, alcohol misuse is the most frequently reported substance of use.The use of alcohol in older adults negatively impacts brain structure and function and can lead to declines in cognitive function and memory, particularly for adults over the age of 65. In addition, the bodys ability to break down alcohol decreases with age, resulting in increased risk for accidents and falls, fractures and car accidents. For anyone in recovery from substance use disorder, or concerned about increased consumption through the holidays, it is important to plan.Here are strategies for staying sober: Be aware of people, places or situations that can trigger consumption, and do what you can to minimize these exposures. Keep (and bring, if necessary) a nonalcoholic drink in your hand to resist temptation and discourage others from offering an alcoholic drink. Set realistic expectations. Stress is common for nearly everyone during the holidays, and spontaneous, imperfect moments are often the most memorable and special moments. Take care of yourself. Proper nutrition, exercise and meditation do wonders for your well-being. If you feel well physically, you will be stronger emotionally. Set boundaries, and let people know where you need support in resisting temptations. Have a plan on how to navigate, and more importantly exit social gatherings (For example, do not be dependent on someone else for transportation, so you can leave if needed). Be aware that returning to use a substance after a period of abstinence can happen AFTER the holidays, where we can justify returning to use by feeling entitled to drink or use drugs for having made it through the holidays. Sometimes, we manage better during a crisis than afterward.. Seek professional help and support.Sometimes, substance misuse is difficult to recognize in older adults, and few treatment programs are designed to meet their needs. However, the Primary Care Addiction Treatment (PCAT) program for adults at Healthcare Network follows a supportive, compassionate and nonjudgmental approach to encourage healing and lessen negative effects. The program treats every patient with respect and dignity, using empathetic language to reduce stigma and foster a supportive environment.Healthcare Network also offers medication for addiction treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and other substances within a primary care setting. Comprehensive care includes medication treatment along with behavioral therapy and counseling services to provide a whole-care approach to treating substance use disorders and support recovery.In addition, our primary care programs for the whole family include integrated mental and behavioral health care to address some of the mental health challenges that are sometimes at the root of substance use disorders.Help is available through the holidays and beyond. Supportive treatment can be the gift of a lifetime for you and your loved ones. About the Author By Phara Lafortune-Morame is associate clinical director of behavioral health at Healthcare Network. To learn more about substance use and behavioral and mental health support available Healthcare Network, visit healthcareswfl.org or call 239.658.3000.
Downsizing can be an emotional and overwhelming process, especially when it involves parting with a lifetime of memories and cherished belongings. At Bluestar Move Management, we specialize in making this transition as smooth and positive as possible. Whether youre moving to a smaller home, a senior living community, or simply looking to declutter, our comprehensive downsizing services are designed to support you every step of the way.Why Choose Bluestar for Downsizing?We understand that each move is deeply personal. Our approach combines professionalism, compassion, and respect to ensure your downsizing experience is stress-free. Our team handles every detail, from sorting and organizing to packing and setting up your new home, so you can focus on embracing the next chapter of your life.Our Downsizing Process1. Free ConsultationWe begin with a complimentary one-hour onsite consultation to understand your goals, timeline, and specific needs. This helps us create a tailored plan for your transition.2. Sorting & OrganizingOur team works closely with you to sort through your belongings, helping you decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. We treat every item with care, respecting the memories and meaning attached to your possessions.3. Packing with CareWe handle the packing process with precision, ensuring that your items are safely and securely prepared for the move. From fragile keepsakes to everyday essentials, everything is packed with the utmost attention to detail.4. Estate LiquidationIf you have items you no longer need, we can assist with estate sales or donation coordination, helping you simplify your move while maximizing the value of your belongings.5. Moving Day ManagementOn moving day, we oversee all aspects of the process, coordinating with movers and ensuring everything goes according to plan.6. Unpacking & Home SetupOnce you arrive at your new home, we take care of unpacking and arranging your space to make it feel like home. From furniture placement to hanging artwork, we ensure your new environment is comfortable, functional, and welcoming.The Benefits of Downsizing with BluestarReduced Stress: We handle the logistics so you can focus on the emotional and practical aspects of your move.Customized Support: Every downsizing journey is unique, and we adapt our services to meet your specific needs.Professional Expertise: With years of experience, our team knows how to manage every detail of the process efficiently.Emotional Understanding: We recognize the emotional challenges of downsizing and provide compassionate support throughout the process.Additional ServicesDecluttering & Organizing: Create a streamlined, clutter-free living space with our expert organizing services.Donation & Disposal Coordination: We ensure that unwanted items are donated or disposed of responsibly.Home Sale Preparation: Enhance the appeal of your current home with our preparation services, including staging and organizing.Start Your Downsizing Journey TodayDownsizing is more than just a moveits a transition to a new chapter of life. With Bluestar Move Management by your side, you can trust that every step will be handled with care, respect, and professionalism.Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and discover how we can make your downsizing experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
At Bluestar, we understand that moving is more than just transporting belongingsits about starting fresh in a new space. With our comprehensive moving help services, we aim to make your transition seamless and stress-free. Whether youre relocating to a smaller home, a senior living community, or simply need assistance with the complexities of moving, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.Our Moving Help Process1. Free ConsultationYour journey begins with a complimentary one-hour onsite consultation. Well discuss your goals, items for sale, and the timeline for your move, ensuring we understand your unique needs.2. Customized PlanningBased on your consultation, we create a tailored action plan to address every detail of your move. From packing and organizing to setting up your new home, our plan ensures a smooth and efficient process.3. Sorting & Floor PlanningOur team works with you to sort through your belongings, deciding what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. We also create a detailed floor plan for your new space, ensuring everything fits perfectly and is arranged for optimal comfort and functionality.4. Packing & UnpackingWe take care of the packing process with precision, ensuring your items are safely prepared for transport. Upon arrival at your new home, we oversee the unpacking and setup, arranging your furniture, artwork, and personal belongings to make your space feel like home.5. Home Sale PreparationIf youre selling your current home, we help enhance its appeal by organizing belongings, staging key areas, and coordinating with contractors to make necessary improvements. Our goal is to help you achieve the best possible sale.6. Making Your New Space Feel Like HomeOnce youre in your new space, we handle all the final touchesfrom arranging furniture to hanging art and setting up electronics. We also remove all packing materials, leaving your new home clean, organized, and ready to enjoy.Why Choose Bluestar?Expertise You Can Trust: With years of experience, we know how to handle every aspect of your move efficiently and with care.Tailored to You: We understand that no two moves are the same, so we adapt our services to fit your specific needs.Stress-Free Moving: Let us handle the details while you focus on settling into your new space.Comprehensive Services: From sorting and packing to estate sales and home setup, were your one-stop solution for all things moving-related.Additional ServicesEstate Liquidation: Need to downsize or sell items? We manage estate sales to help you simplify your move.Donation Coordination: Let us handle donating items you no longer need, giving back to the community on your behalf.Decluttering & Organizing: We create order out of chaos, ensuring your new home is functional and inviting.Ready to Make Your Move?Bluestars moving help services are designed to take the stress out of your relocation process. From the first consultation to the final unpacking, were here to support you every step of the way.Contact Us TodayTake the first step toward a smooth and stress-free move. Schedule your free consultation with Bluestar, and let us handle the details so you can enjoy the next chapter in your life.
ComForCare is a premier provider of in-home care with locations in U.S. and Canada. Our personalized care plans and compassionate caregivers help seniors live independently in their own home and continue to do all the things they love.We serve in any setting you call home, whether it is a private home, independent or assisted living community or skilled care facility.ComForCare Home Care- Bonita Springs provides in-home care services including Alzheimer's disease and dementia care, personal care, respite care for families, transition of care after a hospital or rehabilitation stay, chronic disease management, transportation, medication reminders, light housekeeping & laundry, shopping and errands, safety supervision, companionship and much more. Our services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from compassionate caregivers who are experienced, trained, bonded and insured.The ComForCare mission is to improve the quality of life and level of independence for every client and family receiving our services.Preserve Quality of Life with Home Care ServiceComForCare offers a variety of in-home care services to fit the needs of you and your family. It is our goal to provide companionship and help with everyday activities to ensure your elderly loved ones can live safely and securely. Whether your loved ones health concerns are due to illness, injury, or aging, our personal home care packages and flexible scheduling allow your loved one to maintain a sense of freedom, dignity, and connection to friends and family. Seniors who choose to stay at home are often happier, healthier, and recover faster from illness or injury than those living in assisted living facilities. ComForCare is independent living with a little extra help! Experience True CaregivingOur health care professionals are not only highly qualified, but they are also highly compassionate and love what they do. Caregivers who meet our high standards and strict guidelines are screened for empathy, trained in senior care, and matched with clients based on their experience, skills, and compatibility. This unique approach to elder care provides the foundation for a trusted relationship between your loved one and the caregiver, and a long-lasting partnership in care between you and ComForCare. Dedicated Personal Care Tailored to YOUFrom certified nursing assistants to respite care to companionship, our care providers give you just what you need to live your best life. As an alternative to rehab outpatient centers and nursing homes, our home healthcare agency makes daily living easier. Team members partner with family caregivers and patients to develop a custom-tailored care plan. ComForCare's personal care services include non-medical care like grocery shopping, bathing assistance, medication reminders, transportation to doctors appointments, and other companion care. We can also help prepare meals and provide support with household chores on an as-needed basis, as well as incorporate specialized memory care for those with dementia or Alzheimers disease.
ComForCare is a premier provider of in-home care with locations in U.S. and Canada. Our personalized care plans and compassionate caregivers help seniors live independently in their own home and continue to do all the things they love.We serve in any setting you call home, whether it is a private home, independent or assisted living community or skilled care facility.ComForCare Home Care- Bonita Springs provides in-home care services including Alzheimer's disease and dementia care, personal care, respite care for families, transition of care after a hospital or rehabilitation stay, chronic disease management, transportation, medication reminders, light housekeeping & laundry, shopping and errands, safety supervision, companionship and much more. Our services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from compassionate caregivers who are experienced, trained, bonded and insured.The ComForCare mission is to improve the quality of life and level of independence for every client and family receiving our services.Preserve Quality of Life with Home Care ServiceComForCare offers a variety of in-home care services to fit the needs of you and your family. It is our goal to provide companionship and help with everyday activities to ensure your elderly loved ones can live safely and securely. Whether your loved ones health concerns are due to illness, injury, or aging, our personal home care packages and flexible scheduling allow your loved one to maintain a sense of freedom, dignity, and connection to friends and family. Seniors who choose to stay at home are often happier, healthier, and recover faster from illness or injury than those living in assisted living facilities. ComForCare is independent living with a little extra help! Experience True CaregivingOur health care professionals are not only highly qualified, but they are also highly compassionate and love what they do. Caregivers who meet our high standards and strict guidelines are screened for empathy, trained in senior care, and matched with clients based on their experience, skills, and compatibility. This unique approach to elder care provides the foundation for a trusted relationship between your loved one and the caregiver, and a long-lasting partnership in care between you and ComForCare. Dedicated Personal Care Tailored to YOUFrom certified nursing assistants to respite care to companionship, our care providers give you just what you need to live your best life. As an alternative to rehab outpatient centers and nursing homes, our home healthcare agency makes daily living easier. Team members partner with family caregivers and patients to develop a custom-tailored care plan. ComForCare's personal care services include non-medical care like grocery shopping, bathing assistance, medication reminders, transportation to doctors appointments, and other companion care. We can also help prepare meals and provide support with household chores on an as-needed basis, as well as incorporate specialized memory care for those with dementia or Alzheimers disease.