Understanding the Different Stages of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Needs
ComForCare Home Care - Bonita Springs
Nov 05, 2024
Florida - Southwest
Email US
Click to Email Us
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.
Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 101
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.
Early-Stage—Will Alzheimer Care Be Necessary?
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:
- Trouble with higher order tasks like complex work functions, social situations, planning out actions, or organizing thoughts.
- Difficulty with word retrieval, typically mid-sentence. This will happen with names as well, especially those of new people.
- Reading and immediately forgetting what was just read.
- Losing items frequently that were never an issue before (wallet, keys, etc.).
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.
Middle-Stage—What Carers for Dementia Can Do to Help
This stage is the longest out of the three, which is why you may see overlap between stages. At this point, someone might experience:
- Memory loss, including personal information (address, phone number, etc.), important events, current location, the day of the week, and more.
- Changes in mood and personality, due to damage to the frontal lobe.
- Trouble with activities of daily living, including going to the bathroom (due to bladder and bowel issues), getting dressed, cooking, and bathing.
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.
Late-Stage—How to Care for Dementia Patients with Advanced Disease Progression
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:
- Cognitive withdrawal; people at this stage may begin to lose awareness of their surroundings or current reality.
- Physical decline in ability and their immune system.
- Trouble with speech and swallowing.
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.
Finding At-Home, Long-Term Care for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Patients That You Can Trust
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.
- To view the original version of this article visit www.comforcare.com/blog/understanding-the-different-stages-of-alzheimers-and-dementia-care-needs_ae369.html
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
Other Articles You May Like
Our hearts are dedicated to yours
At Lee Health, you have everything you need to take care of your heart health. Our expert cardiovascular team is the largest and most experienced in Southwest Florida. No matter where you are in your health care journey, our experts are alongside you every step of the way. Lee Health Heart Institute includes primary and specialty care, nationally ranked hospitals, Shipley Cardiothoracic Center, cardiac rehabilitation and moreall in a safe and comforting environment. Were ready to help you stay active, engaged and prepared to enjoy the important things in life.The Lee Health Heart Institute is nationally recognized for excellence in cardiovascular care. HealthPark Medical Center has been recognized as a PINC AI I Fortune 50 Top Cardiology Hospital in the country and 1 of only 6 hospitals recognized in Florida and the only hospital in Southwest Florida underscoring Lee Healths commitment to exceptional cardiovascular care and medical excellence in the region. The Lee Health Heart Institute ranks 9th in the nation and top 3 in Florida through its PINC designation. Our dedication to advancing heart health is evident through ongoing clinical trials, published research, and 11 abstracts presented at the American College of Cardiology Scientific Sessions. Heart Institute Locations Near YouThe Heart Institute incorporates cardiovascular services, cardiology, and cardiothoracic surgery. Locate Lee Health Heart Institute clinics near you for convenient locations including experienced cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and more. Dedicated cardiovascular health to patients located minutes from Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, Lehigh Acres, Estero, and Bonita Springs.Cardiothoracic Surgery - Heart Institute at Shipley Cardiothoracic Center9981 S HealthPark Dr, Suite 156 Fort Myers, FL 33908Phone number(239) 343-6341 Cardiology - Heart Institute at Bass Road16261 Bass Rd, Suite 300 Fort Myers, FL 33908Phone number(239) 343-6410Cardiology - Heart Institute at Cape Coral Hospital708 Del Prado Blvd, Suite 7 Cape Coral, FL 33990Phone number(239) 424-3660Cardiology - Heart Institute at Coconut Point23450 Via Coconut Point Estero, FL 34135Phone number(239) 468-0121Cardiology - Heart Institute at Medical Plaza One9800 S HealthPark Dr, Suite 320 Fort Myers, FL 33908Phone number(239) 343-6350Cardiology - Heart Institute at Metro Parkway13340 Metro Pkwy, Suite 200 Fort Myers, FL 33966Phone number(239) 343-0550Cardiology - Heart Institute at Sanctuary8960 Colonial Center Dr, Suite 302 Fort Myers, FL 33905Phone number(239) 343-9700
National Cancer Survivors Month
June is National Cancer Survivor Month, a time to celebrate, support, and raise awareness about cancer survivorship.There are more than 18 million cancer survivors in the U.S.Statistics from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) project that the number will grow to 26 million by 2040.More than 2 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer in 2025.The NCI projects that an estimated 618,120 people in the U.S. will die from the disease in 2025.Be a part of the NCA Difference and support our mission of improving the care of cancer patients through our no-cost second-opinion services. Your support helps improve patient outcomes and peace of mind!
Understanding Assisted Living in Utah: A Comprehensive Guide for Families
As Utahs population continues to age, many families are exploring senior living options that provide both independence and essential support. Assisted living is one of the most sought-after solutions, offering a balanced environment for seniors who need help with daily activities but still wish to maintain a sense of autonomy. If you're beginning the search for assisted living in Utah, understanding what these communities offer and how to choose the right fit is essential.This guide will help you navigate assisted living in Utah with clarity, confidence, and compassion. What Is Assisted Living?Assisted living refers to a residential community designed for seniors who are largely independent but may need assistance with tasks like bathing, dressing, medication management, or meal preparation. Unlike skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities do not provide round-the-clock medical care, but they do offer 24/7 supervision and support from trained staff.Most assisted living communities in Utah also offer amenities such as:Private or semi-private apartmentsGroup dining with nutritious mealsHousekeeping and laundry servicesTransportation assistanceRecreational and social activitiesOn-site wellness programs Why Utah Families Choose Assisted LivingUtah has become a popular place for retirees and seniors due to its beautiful landscapes, relatively low cost of living, and strong sense of community. Assisted living communities in Utah often incorporate the natural beauty of the state, offering seniors a lifestyle thats both safe and enriching.Some key benefits of assisted living in Utah include:Peace of Mind for Families: Knowing your loved one is in a secure and supportive environment can ease the burden of caregiving and reduce family stress.Tailored Care: Assisted living communities evaluate each residents unique needs and develop a personalized care plan to support their independence and health.Social Opportunities: Many Utah seniors face isolation, especially in rural areas. Assisted living communities encourage social interaction, which is essential for mental and emotional well-being.Access to Nature and Recreation: Utahs outdoor culture often extends into its assisted living communities, offering residents scenic views, walking paths, and outdoor events. How to Choose an Assisted Living Community in UtahWhen selecting an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one, consider the following factors: Level of Care: Ensure the community can accommodate current needs and adapt to future care requirements. Licensing and Accreditation: Verify that the community meets Utahs health and safety regulations. Location: Proximity to family, medical providers, or familiar neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. Costs and Contracts: Understand the fee structure, what's included, and any additional costs. Culture and Environment: Visit communities in person or virtually to observe how staff and residents interact, and assess whether the atmosphere feels welcoming and respectful. Finding Assisted Living Communities in UtahSeniors Blue Book is a trusted resource for families exploring senior care options across Utah. Our comprehensive directories help you compare services, amenities, and locationsall in one place.To start your search, explore these helpful pages:Utah Senior Housing DirectoryAssisted Living Communities in UtahThese listings are updated regularly and include detailed profiles of local providers, ensuring you have accurate information to make informed decisions. Final ThoughtsChoosing assisted living is a major life decision that can significantly enhance the quality of life for Utah seniors and provide much-needed relief for their families. Whether youre just beginning your research or ready to schedule tours, understanding your options is the first step toward a supportive and fulfilling future. Assisted living in Utah offers more than just careit offers community, dignity, and peace of mind. Start exploring your options today with help from the Seniors Blue Book.
Local Services By This Author
ComForCare Home Care- Bonita Springs
Home Health 9990 Coconut Road, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34135ComForCare 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 Home Care- Bonita Springs
Non-Medical 9990 Coconut Road, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34135ComForCare 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.