ComForCare Home Care- Bonita Springs

Discovering that you or your loved one has Alzheimers, 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.Alzheimers & Dementia Care 101For those who have never known anyone diagnosed with Alzheimers 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.Alzheimers is a specific disease that causes dementia due to the ongoing brain damage it causes. Dementiathough often synonymous with memory lossis 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 Alzheimers 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-StageWill 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 recipients 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-StageWhat Carers for Dementia Can Do to HelpThis 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 ComForCares 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-StageHow to Care for Dementia Patients with Advanced Disease ProgressionWhen Alzheimers 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 recipients comfort, which is why many loved ones also look into palliative care options.Finding At-Home, Long-Term Care for Dementia and Alzheimers Patients That You Can TrustIf you have a family history of Alzheimers 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 lets start making a plan that works best for you or your loved one.

Across cultures and generations, mealtimes are made for connection, joy, and nourishment. This is especially true for older adults. As we age, our nutritional needs change, and the simple act of cooking itself can become a challenge. Mobility issues, dietary restrictions, and even a decline in appetite can turn mealtimes into a source of stress rather than togetherness. This is where ComForCare steps in. We understand that mealtimes are precious opportunities for connection and well-being. Our compassionate caregivers strive to provide the warmth and companionship that turn meals into memories while supporting their nutritional goals.To prepare for the festive season ahead, were here to share some of our top senior nutrition tips from our expert caregivers. Whether youre making a holiday feast or simply elevating your loved ones everyday life, this guide will help you transform your loved ones relationship with food for the better.Understanding Senior Nutritional NeedsAs we age, our bodies require different nutrients than they used to, and often in varying amounts. Once a person reaches the age of 60, eating healthy becomes ever more crucial. If youre helping an older adult at home, its important to focus on nutrient-dense foods, such as:Lean Protein: Essential for muscle maintenance and repair. Good sources include chicken breast, fish, eggs, beans, and lentils.Calcium and Vitamin D: Crucial for bone health. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are excellent options.Fiber: Promotes digestive health and regularity. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in the diet. Make healthy swaps like brown rice or whole grain pasta instead of enriched flour and white bread.Hydration: Seniors are more susceptible to dehydration. Encourage regular water intake throughout the day.Healthy Fats: Fats are important to our diet, but the type of fat matters. Choose olive oil instead of butter or margarine and focus on cutting out saturated and trans fats.Tips for Planning Meals that DelightCreating enjoyable and nourishing meals for seniors requires a thoughtful approach that goes beyond simply meeting nutritional requirements. As we age, our taste buds may become less sensitive, and our ability to chew and digest certain foods may change. By taking these factors into account, we can craft meals that are both appealing and easy to enjoy.Texture MattersAs older adults begin to face trouble chewing and swallowing, opt for softer foods or modify recipes by chopping, pureeing, or blending ingredients. Think tender stews, creamy soups, scrambled eggs, or mashed vegetables.Flavorful Without Overdoing ItWith age, our sense of taste may dull, making it hard to get excited about healthy foods. Focus on enhancing flavors with herbs, spices, and citrus fruits to elevate the occasion. Just make sure not to pile on the salt or sugar. After all, about 90% of Americans aged 60 and older consume too much sodium. Excessive sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, while too much sugar has been linked to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even cognitive decline.A Feast for the Eyes and PalateVariety is key to keeping meals interesting. Aim for a colorful plate with a range of textures and flavors. This not only stimulates the appetite but also ensures a wider array of nutrients.Little and OftenOlder adults may feel full more quickly. Offer smaller, more frequent meals and snacks throughout the day to maintain energy levels and prevent overeating.Simple Tips for Cooking with Seniors During the HolidaysMeeting nutritional goals is a crucial aspect of anyones overall health and well-being, but its especially important for those over 60. Getting the right balance of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients helps ward off chronic health conditions and fall risks, which can further limit physical activity, mobility, and mental health, among other impacts.You can help an older person in your life achieve these goals both every day and on special occasions. Sharing the joy of cooking can be a wonderful bonding experience when you keep these guidelines in mind:Plan Ahead: Create meal plans for seniors that incorporate their dietary needs and preferences. If cooking together for the holidays, make a plan to reduce stress.Keep it Simple: Choose easy meals for seniors that are quick to prepare and require minimal effort. Keep the clutter to a minimum for a safe and accessible workspace.Make it Fun: Turn cooking into a social activity, and involve your loved one in the process. Whether they enjoy stirring ingredients, setting the table, or simply sharing stories and recipes from their past, theres always a way to get engaged.Adapt as Needed: Be flexible and adjust recipes to accommodate any limitations or challenges. Make sure that the lighting in the kitchen is bright for full safety, and consider using tools with larger handles or non-slip grips.Celebrate Every Meal: Make mealtimes a time for connection and joy, creating lasting memories. Patience is key take your time and enjoy the process!Care in the Home, Confidence in the KitchenFor families, knowing that their loved ones are well-fed and cared for brings peace of mind. Of course, meal planning and preparation can quickly become a full-time job. Many people dont have the time to ensure their loved ones are getting the right nutrition while also caring for their own needs. Thats where ComForCare comes in.Our in-home caregivers provide the support and confidence families need, allowing seniors to enjoy mealtimes in the comfort of their own homes. Whether it's a simple weekday lunch or a festive holiday feast, our caregivers are there to make every meal a special occasion. ComForCare's compassionate caregivers can assist with:Meal Planning and Preparation: Creating customized meal plans and preparing delicious, nutritious dishes.Grocery Shopping and Errands: Ensuring the pantry is stocked with all the necessary ingredients.Companionship: Sharing mealtimes and turning them into cherished moments of connection.ComForCare: More Than Just CareCooking with seniors is a wonderful way to nourish both body and soul. With the support of our dedicated caregivers, mealtimes can be a source of joy, connection, and well-being. Let us help you create special moments and lasting memories, one delicious meal at a time.Looking for more inspiration, recipes, and tips? The Care Kitchen: Cooking with Kindness cookbook is now available on Amazon! Order your copy today to get thoughtfully curated weekly plans, convenient grocery lists, and so much more.Find an In-Home Caregiver Near You for Meal Preparation & More!At ComForCare, we believe care goes beyond the basics. We're committed to providing compassionate, personalized care that enriches the lives of seniors and their families. Our caregivers are skilled professionals, companions, confidantes, and friends. Find your nearest ComForCare online or call us 24/7 to ask anything!

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a challenging and often confusing condition. LBD affects many familiesas many as 1.4 million people in the United States are living with this condition. Though it is the third leading form of dementia, it isnt as well-known as Alzheimers disease, leaving many family members wondering how the disease progresses, what to expect, and how to provide dementia care for their loved ones.At ComForCare, we understand how tough it can be to navigate this diagnosis. However, knowing what to expectand the resources available to youcan help you provide better care and support for your loved one. Here, we break down the 7 stages of Lewy Body Dementia, explaining what happens at each stage and how you can help.What is Lewy Body Dementia?Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain. These deposits, known as Lewy bodies, affect brain regions involved in thinking, movement, behavior, and mood. LBD can cause a range of symptoms, including a decline in cognitive abilities, visual hallucinations, fluctuating attention, and Parkinson's-like motor issues such as tremors and stiffness. It's the third most common type of dementia after Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, and it requires comprehensive care and support due to its complex and varied symptoms.Navigating the Stages of Dementia with Lewy BodiesWhile this seven-stage system isn't universally agreed upon, its a common way to think about the progression of the disease. It's important to remember that these stages are not always clear-cut, and the progression can vary from person to person.Stage 1: No Noticeable SymptomsIn the early stage, there are no noticeable symptoms. Your loved one might not show any signs of memory loss, confusion, or other typical symptoms of dementia. During this stage, Lewy bodies (abnormal protein deposits) are beginning to form in the brain, but they haven't started affecting cognitive function yet.How You Can Help:Stay informed about the condition and be prepared for changes that may come.Maintain regular medical check-ups to catch any early signs.Stage 2: Very Mild SymptomsIn stage two, symptoms are still very mild. You might notice slight changes in thinking or mood, but nothing that significantly disrupts daily life. Your loved one might have minor memory lapses or difficulty concentrating.How You Can Help:Encourage mental and physical activities to keep the brain engaged.Create a routine to help with concentration and memory.What are the first signs of Lewy body dementia?Mild confusion, memory loss, and new problems with attention are often the first symptoms of Lewy body dementia. However, these can also be signs of mild cognitive decline or other forms of dementia, such as Alzheimers disease. In some cases, these symptoms can even be side effects of certain medications.Its important to keep an open line of communication with your loved ones healthcare provider to establish a baseline, monitor symptoms, and obtain an accurate diagnosis.Stage 3: Mild SymptomsBy stage three, symptoms become more noticeable. Your loved one might have more frequent memory lapses, trouble with problem-solving, or difficulty finding the right words. They might also start showing signs of confusion or slight changes in their personality.How You Can Help:Offer gentle reminders for daily tasks and help with planning activities.Be patient and understanding as they struggle with finding words or remembering things.Start planning for long-term care options, such as in-home dementia care.Stage 4: Moderate SymptomsStage four marks a significant change. Cognitive decline becomes more evident, and your loved one might need help with daily activities like cooking, shopping, or managing finances. They might also experience increased confusion, especially in unfamiliar environments.How You Can Help:Assist with daily tasks and maintain a safe, supportive environment.Begin arranging dementia home care services, if you havent already.Use visual aids and lists to help with memory and organization.Stage 5: Moderately Severe SymptomsAt this stage, your loved one will need more assistance with daily living. They might have significant memory problems, difficulty recognizing friends and family, and trouble with basic self-care like dressing and bathing.How You Can Help:Provide hands-on assistance with daily activities or rely on the aid of a DementiaWise-trained home caregiver.Ensure a calm, structured environment to reduce confusion and anxiety.Encourage social interaction to maintain emotional well-being.Stage 6: Severe SymptomsIn stage six, symptoms become severe as Lewy bodies build up in brain cells. Your loved one might experience major personality changes, delusions, or hallucinations. They will need extensive help with daily activities and might have trouble communicating.How You Can Help:Offer or arrange constant supervision and support.Create a safe, calming environment to help manage delusions or hallucinations.Use simple, clear communication to reduce frustration.Stage 7: Very Severe SymptomsThe final stage is the most challenging. Your loved one will likely lose the ability to speak, walk, or respond to their environment. They will need round-the-clock care and assistance with all daily activities.How You Can Help:Make sure your loved one receives compassionate, around-the-clock care, ensuring comfort, dignity, and quality of life.Work closely with care professionals to manage symptoms and provide the best possible care.Focus on maintaining a calm, soothing environment to ease anxiety and discomfort.Supporting Your Loved OneCaring for someone with Lewy Body Dementia can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. At ComForCare, we offer in-home dementia care services tailored to your loved one's needs at each stage of LBD. Our professional caregivers are trained to provide compassionate, effective care that supports both the individual and their family.Tips for Caregivers:Educate Yourself: Understanding Lewy Body Dementia helps you anticipate changes and respond effectively.Build a Support Network: Connect with support groups, friends, and professionals who can offer advice and emotional support.Prioritize Self-Care: Caring for a loved one is demanding. Make sure to take time for yourself to recharge and stay healthy.Start Planning Your Loved Ones Care Journey TodayLewy Body Dementia is a journey, but with the right information and support, you can provide the best care possible for your loved one. Remember, ComForCare is here to help every step of the way. Reach out to us for more information about our in-home care services and how we can assist you and your family.Choose ComForCare: Our DementiaWise-Certified Caregivers Are Standing ByComForCare is leading the nation in dementia care services at home. Our DementiaWise training program equips caregivers with the tools, training, and resources they need to help seniors live their best lives at every stage of their journey with dementia. To learn more about our services and how they can play a role in your loved ones care, contact your nearest location or call our helpline today!

Discovering a family member is living with dementia is often an unexpected and overwhelming reality to face. When you find yourself suddenly having to take care of a loved one, especially someone who was once your caretaker, adjusting to the responsibility and new dynamic takes both a practical and emotional toll. Despite how common the condition isaround 6.5 million Americans age 65+ have been diagnosed with the most common form, Alzheimersmany family caretakers end up making the same mistakes in their approach to dementia care. This ultimately contributes to more behavior problems and declining mental wellness for the care recipient as well as the care provider. Whether youve recently become the caregiver for your loved one with dementia, or youre facing burnout after a long period of caretaking and are looking for advice, ComForCare New Braunfels is here to support you. Discover how to care for someone with dementia in a way that eases the burden for both you and your loved one.What is Dementia Care? Caring for a loved one with dementia involves a range of support strategies that adapt as the condition progresses, with later stages requiring more intensive assistance. However, the following key elements are generally included in dementia care:Everyday Dementia CareAs dementia affects thinking, memory, and reasoning, individuals often require help with:Everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and dressing. Establishing a routine to provide comfort and stability.Helping them keep track of daily tasks by writing things down.Using a medication reminder system to manage their health needs.Keeping mealtimes consistent, with enough time and a familiar setting to help them feel at ease.Managing Communication & BehaviorPeople with dementia may exhibit anxiety, agitation, or anger. Managing behavior and communication is a vital part of how to care for someone with dementia, including: Reassuring them with calm, patient speech, and listen attentively to show understanding.Respect their personal space and offer quiet times and activities to reduce stress.Surrounding them with familiar objects that bring a sense of security.Encouraging two-way communication for as long as possible.If they have trouble communicating, distract them with a familiar activity or object to ease frustration.Maintain a Healthy & Active LifestyleMaintaining a healthy, active lifestyle is important for people with dementia. Caregivers can help by: Finding activities that allow them to move and stay engaged.Helping them get started and making the activity more enjoyable if they seem uninterested.Incorporating music can lift their mood and add fun to physical activity.Introducing short mini-workouts or taking walks together to encourage physical health.Offering a variety of healthy, easy-to-serve foods, giving them choices to foster independence.Safe Home for Seniors with DementiaSafety at home is crucial for individuals with dementia since they are more prone to accidents and confusion. Dementia caregivers can keep their loved ones safe by: Removing hazards and installing safety features, such as handrails, safety grips, or carpeted surfaces for better traction.Use bright tape to mark the edges of stairs for visibility.Adding safety plugs to outlets and latches to cabinets containing dangerous items.Ensure the home has good lighting and remove items they could trip over.Minimizing busy patterns that may cause confusion or disorientation.Securing dangerous household or cleaning products to avoid accidents.Dementia Care Dos & DontsCaring for a loved one with dementia requires patience, understanding, and a compassionate approach. The loss of independence can be upsetting for them, so knowing what not to do is often just as important as knowing the right steps to take.Sometimes, despite our best intentions, the ways we try to support or communicate only create confusion and frustration. This can lead to resistance and challenging behaviors from your loved one while increasing stress for you.Dementia Care Donts DONT remind them they have dementia. This will only upset them further, as they dont fully understand and may feel frustrated. DONT point out that they need help. It can make them feel like a burden. If they seem happier around others who visit, its often because those people arent a constant reminder of their condition.DONT correct them. They arent able to change, and correction can damage the relationship, leading to emotional strain and increased negative behaviors.DONT take things personally or force situations. The behaviors they display arent intentionalthe disease is causing the changes.Dementia Care DosDO let them do what they can. Even if it takes longer, allowing them to complete tasks on their own helps preserve their sense of independence and reduces feelings of being a burden.DO enjoy their company. Focus on creating joyful moments and meaningful activities that encourage connection.DO set up spaces and activities that promote independence. Opt for easy-to-wear clothing, like items without shoelaces or buttons, to make daily routines smoother.DO foster a calm, supportive environment. This helps them feel more secure and allows for easier communication and care.Making Dementia Care Easier for You & Your Loved OneCaring for a family member with dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging, but with understanding, patience, and the right approach, you can create a more supportive and compassionate environment. Putting yourself in their shoes, practicing tolerance, and creating dementia-friendly routines are key to reducing stress for both you and your loved one.If the demands of care become overwhelming or if youre seeking additional support, consider in-home care. At ComForCare New Braunfels, our compassionate caregivers specialize in dementia care, helping maintain your loved one's dignity and well-being while giving you peace of mind. Our personalized care plans ensure your loved one receives the support they need in the comfort of their own home.Let us help make dementia care easier for your familyreach out today to learn more about our services and how we can support you.

When most people hear the word dementia, they think of Alzheimers disease. Though Alzheimers is the most common form of dementia, there are many other potential causes. These include vascular dementia, a potentially underdiagnosed form that may account for 5% to 10% of all dementia occurrences or more. If your family member has been diagnosed with this condition, you likely have many questions about it, how it progresses, and the best ways to support them.Caring for someone who is showing signs of cognitive decline can be a challenging and emotional journey. At ComForCare, we are dedicated to helping families navigate the challenges of dementia care with empathy and expertise. Our mission is not only to provide exceptional in-home care but also to empower families with all the information they need to support their loved ones. Here, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about vascular dementia to help alleviate some of your concerns.What is Vascular Dementia?Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer's disease, affecting millions of older adults worldwide. It occurs when the vessels that supply blood to the brain become blocked or narrowed, leading to reduced blood flow. This reduction in blood flow can deprive brain cells of the oxygen and nutrients they need, leading to a decline in cognitive functions.What Causes Vascular Dementia?People develop vascular dementia more frequently after experiencing a stroke. However,  any condition that damages blood vessels and reduces circulation, depriving the brain of vital oxygen and nutrients, can lead to this form of dementia. Other risk factors can include diabetes, high blood pressure, blood clots, and heart problems. Each of these conditions can damage small blood vessels, reducing circulation and affecting key parts of the brain that control memory, reasoning, planning, judgment, and other thought processes.What Are the Symptoms of Vascular Dementia?Symptoms of vascular dementia can vary widely but generally include:Confusion and disorientationTrouble concentrating and planningMemory lossDifficulty communicatingChanges in mood or behaviorProblems with movement and balanceRecognizing these symptoms early can be crucial in managing the condition effectively and supporting your loved one's quality of life.What Are the Stages of Vascular Dementia?Dementia progresses in broad stages, which can help families and caregivers understand what to expect and plan accordingly. Typically, the stages of vascular dementia include:Early Stage: Mild cognitive impairment that is noticeable to family members, often following a stroke. At this stage, the person might have difficulties with complex tasks and mood changes.Middle Stage: As the disease progresses, cognitive and physical functions decline. Memory loss becomes more prominent, and the individual might need help with daily activities.Late Stage: In the final stages, a person with vascular dementia may become much more physically frail and dependent, requiring extensive care.Understanding these stages can help in planning for care needs and medical interventions.How is Vascular Dementia Diagnosed?Diagnosing vascular dementia involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations, neurological evaluations, and imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans. These assessments help to rule out other possible causes of dementia and confirm the presence of blood flow problems in the brain.What Treatments Are Available for People with Vascular Dementia?While there is no cure for vascular dementia, there are various treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment approaches include:Medication for Vascular DementiaMedications may be used to address related conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, which can help slow the progression of dementia. Some medications can also help reduce symptoms or improve cognitive function in some individuals.Commonly used medications include blood pressure medications, antiplatelets, and statins. In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, which can also be beneficial in managing vascular dementia.Lifestyle ChangesEncouraging a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and cognitive activities, can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. Caregivers can help older adults maintain a diet low in fat and salt, encourage regular physical activity, and ensure they take medications as prescribed to manage their conditions.Supportive CareAs an in-home dementia care provider, ComForCare believes in the power of supportive care tailored to each individuals needs. This can include help with daily activities, behavioral therapies, and creating a safe, comforting environment within the home.How Can I Help My Loved One Manage Vascular Dementia?Supporting a loved one with vascular dementia requires patience, understanding, and a proactive approach to care. In addition to helping your loved one maintain a healthy lifestyle, you can also consider:Establishing routines: Having a consistent routine can help reduce confusion and offer a sense of stability.Safety-proofing your home: To prevent falls and injuries, install grab bars in the bathroom, ensure the home is well-lit, and remove tripping hazards.Seeking professional help: Consider enlisting the services of an in-home care provider like ComForCare. Our caregivers are trained in dementia care and can help manage the day-to-day needs of your loved one, giving you peace of mind.What Support is Available for Families?Caring for someone with vascular dementia can be physically and emotionally draining. It's crucial for caregivers to also take care of their own health. Support groups can offer a network of advice, practical tips, and companionship. Professional in-home care services, like those provided by ComForCare, can also provide respite care, giving family caregivers the break they need to rest and recharge.Why Choose ComForCare?At ComForCare, we understand the challenges that come with caring for a loved one with vascular dementia. Our personalized care plans and dedicated caregivers are here to support your family through every stage. Your journey with a loved that has dementia may feel challenging at times, but with the right support and knowledge, you can make their path as comfortable and fulfilling as possible.Choose ComForCare for Compassionate In-Home Dementia CareVascular dementia is a complex condition, but youre not aloneresources and help are available. At ComForCare, we are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for individuals with vascular dementia and Alzheimers disease. Together, we can ensure that your loved one receives the care and dignity they deserve at every step.

Deciding what you want from home care experience can be a tough decision. Youre not only finding a care provider who meets your care needs but also one who fits your budget. This process gets more complex when you need 24-hour at home care. Choosing a 24-hour care professional takes more time, as this individual or team of people will be around your loved one always. You should trust their approach to support, level of care, and judgement, which makes this decision very important.Contact us today to get in touch with ComForCare; we deliver amazing at-home care services with professionals you can trust. To learn more about this type of support, read more below.Why People Choose 24-Hour Home Care ServicesWhile everyones reasons for choosing at-home care are unique, the main conceit is that your loved ones needs are either extensive yet consistent enough throughout the day or severe enough that they can only be met if someone is always on-site. This is common for people with chronic health issues, like various types of dementia. Other reasons for choosing 24-hour care include sudden injury, limitations to mobility, palliative care needs, and recovery from surgery. Sometimes a care recipient or their family will simply choose round-the-clock care for greater peace of mind.What to Expect from 24-Hour Home CareIf you or your loved ones have never received this type of care before, it may be difficult to understand exactly what kinds of services you can count on:Consistent Support This is the main draw for this specific form of at-home care. With 24-hour care, there is never a time throughout the day when your loved one is without support. It typically covers elements like toileting assistance, hygiene support, and other essential care needs.Help with Daily Activities of LivingWhether light housework or laundry assistance, support with daily activities of living can be a huge help. In cases of recovering from surgery or an accident, rest is key to the healing process. Having a care professional around helps to prioritize that rest, especially when day-to-day responsibilities are no longer a pressing concern. People with chronic illness may have less energy than others; helping with daily tasks means they can use their energy elsewhere, such as spending time with family or pursuing a hobby they love.TransportationHealth encapsulates more than just how your body functions daily. A study from the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry showed evidence that maintaining healthy levels of socialization can make a major difference in a persons overall health, especially their mental health. Transportation services that 24-hour home care services offer can help maintain important social connections, on top of helping your loved one get to important appointments and run errands.Home-Cooked MealsProper nutrition is essential to overall health, but it can become increasingly tricky as we age. Most 24-hour at-home care agencies will be able to offer this service at an additional charge. Depending on the agency, meal delivery may be offered instead.The Benefits of 24-Hour Care for SeniorsIndependenceIt is a common misconception that embracing consistent, professional care means that someone is giving up their independence. Your care professional is not there to limit you they are there to do the exact opposite. Proper care should prioritize recipient independence.Better Health OutcomesConsistency in care means that health issues which might normally slip through the cracks due to daily life will no longer go by the wayside. Having care available at all times can help prevent risk, such as abrasions getting infected, or medication being missed.SafetySimply put, having someone around at all hours means that if disaster strikes, either through a fall or a fire, there is someone ready to take action. In emergencies, not a single second will be wasted waiting for someone to respond to a need for help.Important Distinctions for Home Care Near YouNot all home care agencies have the same offerings, so it is key to understand what an agency can do for you before pursuing their help. Such important distinctions can include:24-Hour Home Care for Dementia Patients  Dementia requires a more specific skillset. Care professionals helping people with dementia should be specially trained. For instance, ComForCare provides its team members with a custom-made, industry-standard setting training called DementiaWise.Add-Ons  Not all services are standard, such as meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, and transportation services. If any of these are non-negotiable for you or your loved one, it will be important to look for them or ask management at your agency of choice about their options.Signs of Excellence in 24-Hour Home Care ServicesYears of Experience The longer an agency has been in business, the longer they have had to learn and perfect their approach.Customer Reviews This is one of the best ways to see if you can trust a care provider. If you see consistent customer compliments or complaints around certain areas, you can be relatively certain of their overall quality.Friendly Staff While this is a simple trait you want to see in care professionals, it also helps show how discerning a 24-hour home care agency is with who they hire.It is important to keep in mind that none of these will guarantee an agency is the right fit for your loved one. They are just more likely to provide quality care.24-Hour Home Care Services Done RightWhether you or a loved one need involved at-home care to help with chronic issues like dementia or would benefit from having someone whenever needed, round-the-clock care may be the answer. Often, the best way to find the right fit is to get out there and meet the professionals providing such services.

Whether you need care to help you or a loved one recover from a sudden accident or as part of a surgery recovery regimen, finding the right respite care near you can be difficult.Contact ComForCare to get in touch with one of our friendly team members to discuss what the best care could look like for you. If you would rather learn more first, we can demystify the process for you.Step 1: Talk to Your Care Provider About Short-Term Home CareYour family doctor and any other specialists are a crucial starting point for this process because they can tell you about any specific care concerns associated with an upcoming respite period. Not every care provider can offer the same level of care. Your doctor may be able to point you in the direction of a service provider with the right specialization or explore creative ways of filling any gaps in care.Step 2: Decide on Home Care v. Respite Care Facilities Near YouWhile both options have their merits, at-home senior respite care near you is often what is best for rest and recovery. In general, it is less stressful to receive care from the comfort of your own home than an unfamiliar location. If you or your loved one are using respite care to recover from surgery or injury, keeping stress at a minimum is crucial. The recovery period in either situation is almost as important as the initial treatment. If someone in recovery overexerts themself, they run the risk of lengthening their healing time, or re-injury.Step 3: Figure Out Your Priorities for Short-Term Care Near YouIf you only act on one step in this guide, this is the one! There are a lot of different considerations when it comes to making the right at-home care choices, so consider the following:Budget  Any service chosen must be within your means. By choosing a caregiver you ultimately cannot afford, you will put unnecessary stress on your bank account and may cause the care services to be terminated before recovery has finished. Timing  Do you or your loved one need 24-hour care? If not, would your recovery still benefit from it? If you are unsure, this might be an important point to cover when you meet with your doctor.Level of Care  In other words, just how much will you or your loved one need a care professional to help around the house? It's important to determine if they are there as a safeguard or as necessary support for activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and toileting.Step 4: Get Everyone TogetherWhile the decision-making process should be in the hands of the care recipient as often as possible, getting loved ones together for this process can be helpful. Whether they will be providing helping hands or helping to come up with a support plan during the respite care period, familial / social support is as important as professional at-home care.Step 5: Research Respite Care Options Near YouWe recommend starting with a simple online search using terms and phrases that reference the kinds of priorities you established in Step 3. It can be helpful to add wording with near me as well, like respite care near me. This addition will use the location feature of search engines to find options that are in your area, filtering out ones that are too far to be useful. For example, if a ComForCare location is near you, it will show up in your search results, offering you a high-quality, short-term care option for your senior loved one.Step 6: Set Up Interviews to Help DecideOnce youve short-listed options, it is crucial to talk to them, ideally in-person; however, if your list is longer, it can be helpful to eliminate options with a simple phone screen. These interactions should make it clear if an option is the right fit for you. Step 7: Consider Help from Trusted Professionals in At-Home Respite Care ServicesEven with our guide laid out for you, you are likely still missing a crucial piece of the puzzle: care professionals with decades of experience. While you should always do your own research and come to your own conclusions, this is a serious process with many different options to consider. Having professional support is always a good thing, and our team at ComForCare is always ready to provide it. We can walk you through the services we offer near you, identifying if they are the right fit or not.