Characterized by a loss of memory that affects a person’s ability to think, behave, and even perform basic tasks, dementia can wreak havoc on the entire family’s life. With an estimated 47 million people around the world living with dementia, one of your parents may develop this serious disease of the brain. Caring for your loved one will be essential to their basic health and safety, but providing full-time personal care may not be possible due to work restraints or other family obligations.
If your loved one shows the following signs, it is time to arrange around-the-clock care at an assisted living facility.
Injuries
One of the most significant signs that your loved one with dementia requires full-time care is that they are constantly injuring themselves.
Patients with dementia will struggle to get in and out of chairs or their bed, increasing their risk of falls. They may be unsteady at most times or struggle getting dressed and bathing. Falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries among older individuals, so if you notice bumps and bruises on their skin, it may be time for full-time care.
Patients with dementia may no longer remember how to operate a stove, oven, coffee pot, microwave, or fireplace. If your parent has small burns, this injury could be a sign they need supervision to stay safe.
Weight Loss
Most parents teach their kids how important it is to eat, but the roles will now be reversed since patients with dementia have likely forgotten when and how to eat.
If your loved one has lost a significant amount of weight, ensuring they receive full-time care and supervision is essential for their health.
Professionals will not only prepare nutritious meals for your loved one, but they will also make sure they eat each meal every day of the week. Providing these meals for your loved one will drastically improve their health and wellness while giving you some peace of mind.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common issues that affect patients with dementia. While many people consider it a disorder of the mood, depression is a serious problem that can greatly decrease your loved one’s quality of life. Here are a few signs of depression in dementia patients:
- Extreme sadness
- Isolation
- Withdrawal from social situations
- Loss of interest in favorite activities/hobbies
- Concentration issues
The cognitive impairments associated with dementia prevent your parent from realizing these emotions and communicating a need for help. Professional caregivers understand depression in patients with memory disorders and offer effective treatment for this severe emotional disorder.
Poor Hygiene
Patients with dementia may not be able to bathe, groom, or dress properly. In most cases of this disease, they will no longer remember or understand the reasons behind these simple tasks. Although troubling to witness, poor hygiene is an obvious sign in determining if your parent needs full-time assistance.
Patients with dementia may wear unclean clothes or no clothes at all. They may have stained teeth, bad breath, and foul bodily odors. Your parent may not only struggle bathing and showering, but they may completely forego the use of a toilet, as well. This lack of hygiene can be embarrassing and increase their risk of depression.
You may assist at home when it is time to bathe and dress your parent, but full-time care is best for preventing hygiene issues from affecting their health and wellness.
With proper understanding, care, and supervision, patients with dementia can live a healthy and happy life. For more information on enrolling your loved one with dementia in a safe, professional, and beautiful assisted living center, contact the Windsor House today.
