Home Health Care Assistance For Memory Loss Patients

If an aging family member lives alone and is becoming confused and forgetful, they may be unable to safely live alone. While various factors can play a role in forgetfulness and memory loss such as a recent infection, sleep deprivation, and medication side effects, neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease needs to be ruled out. Here are some home health care interventions an Alzheimer's in-home care provider can offer your aging loved one who has memory loss and associated cognitive decline.

Gentle Redirection And Reminders

Because Alzheimer's disease can cause patients to become agitated, anxious, and even combative, caregivers should always try and redirect them gently and in a low tone. The home health care professional can gently redirect your loved one and give them calm reminders to take their medication, go to the bathroom, and perform their oral hygiene tasks.

Many patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease are still relatively independent when it comes to their activities of daily living, (ADLs), however, they may either forget to do them or forget how to do them. Activities of daily living include dressing, bathing, eating, and grooming activities such as performing oral hygiene and hair combing.

If the patient has forgotten how to use a washcloth, the caregiver can offer visual cues, such as holding the washcloth up to the patient's face and turning the water on. These visual cues can help jog the patient's memory so that they can still remain relatively independent and do more for themselves. 

Promote Good Nutrition And Exercise

Eating nutrient-dense foods can help promote optimal brain function and it may even help enhance memory. Foods rich in antioxidants such as avocados, broccoli, beets, dark chocolate, and salmon may help promote overall health and help prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Seniors who are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals may be sluggish, forgetful, and anxious. If your loved one is unable to prepare their meals, the home health care professional can do it for them. The caregiver can prepare nutritious foods that the patient enjoys, and if the patient wants to contribute to the meal preparation, they can assist the caregiver. This will help promote self-esteem and will help alleviate boredom.

The home health care provider can also encourage your loved one to exercise. Physical activity is beneficial for dementia patients as it helps promote circulation, enhances restful sleep, and boosts mood.

If your family member has cognitive difficulties as a result of Alzheimer's disease or another illness, contact a home health care agency to learn more about their services. When memory loss patients receive the physical and emotional care they need, they may be more likely to thrive in their environment and live a happier and more active lifestyle.  

For more info about home health care, contact a local professional. 

Share