What is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease falls under the dementia umbrella. In fact, it’s the most common type of dementia in the UK. Associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning, Alzheimer’s affects the way people think, remember, and behave. In this post, we describe the effects of Alzheimer’s disease on everyday living and share some ways that home care in Romford can support those affected to live as actively and independently as possible. 

Understanding Alzheimer’s disease 

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour.  It does this by causing abnormal changes in the brain, killing nerve cells and tissue. The disease can interfere with daily life by impeding on a person’s ability to carry out simple tasks independently, communicate effectively, and recognise family and close friends. Unfortunately, as symptoms worsen over time, Alzheimer’s disease can endanger the person living with it and affect their ability to care for themselves independently. For example, people living with Alzheimer’s may get lost in familiar areas or forget to turn off the stove. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease but help and support is available. 

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease 

The majority of people living with Alzheimer’s are 65 and older. Symptoms usually begin small and gradually progress over time. Although it’s natural for some memory loss to occur as we age, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of ageing. As symptoms become more severe, here are some things you can expect:

  • Increased confusion and disorientation
  • Difficulties speaking 
  • Trouble making decisions
  • Increased anxiety or low moods
  • Problems carrying out simple tasks
  • Tendency to get lost in familiar neighbourhoods 
  • Forgetting the names of close family and friends 

What is home care?

Home care is personalised care provided in the comfort of a person’s home. It’s designed to empower a person’s independence and help them live at home for longer. The beauty of home care is that it’s tailored to a person’s specific needs. That means we’ll work around your loved one’s lifestyle and routine to ensure consistency, something that is extremely comforting to those living with Alzheimer’s. In fact, home care is the preferred choice for many people with Alzheimer’s because it allows the affected person to remain in a familiar place rather than move to a new environment to receive support. 

How can home care help? 

Alzheimer’s can pose many challenges on a day to day basis to the person living with the condition. We also recognise that it can have an affect on the family involved. Our home care services are here to support your loved one to live safely at home while giving family members the peace of mind that their loved one is receiving the care they deserve.

Here are some ways our compassionate carers can help: 

  • Prepare nutritious meals
  • Support with personal care such as dressing and toileting
  • Take care of household tasks such as washing up, shopping, ironing, and tidying up
  • Provide consistent companionship
  • Administer medication 
  • Arrange appointments
  • Encourage social interaction and hobbies 
  • Assist with mobility issues

Get in touch 

If you or a family member have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and could benefit from our home care services, we would be happy to offer support. Please feel free to get in touch or telephone us on 0800 999 3447 with any questions. Our friendly team would be pleased to provide more information.