Category: Dementia Care

Making visits meaningful and enjoyable for dementia patients can be challenging but rewarding. Creating a comforting and engaging environment during visits can significantly enhance their wellbeing and overall quality of life. Here, you’ll discover practical tips to make the most out of your time together with a senior loved one living with dementia.

Understand Dementia

Understanding dementia’s nature and progression is essential for meaningful interactions. Dementia affects memory, thinking, behavior, and emotion, often leading to confusion and frustration. Acknowledging these challenges will help you tailor your visit to your loved one’s needs.

Types of Dementia

There are various types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia. Each type affects each individual differently, requiring specific approaches. Learning about these differences can aid in creating personalized visits.

Symptoms & Stages

Dementia progresses through stages, from mild to severe. Symptoms range from forgetfulness and confusion to difficulty with communication and mobility. Recognizing these stages helps in adapting your interactions accordingly.

Empathizing with Your Loved One

Empathy is crucial when visiting someone with dementia. Understand your loved one’s challenges and adjust your expectations. Practice patience and kindness, ensuring your loved one feels valued and respected.

Mental and emotional challenges are common for many aging adults, but seniors don’t have to manage them alone. Elderly home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

Prepare for the Visit

Preparation can significantly influence the success of your visit. Planning activities and considering your loved one’s preferences will create a positive experience for both of you.

Set the Mood

Create a calm and familiar environment. Use soft lighting, play gentle music, and minimize distractions to make the setting comfortable. A relaxed atmosphere can reduce anxiety and agitation.

Bring Familiar Items

Familiar objects can evoke memories and comfort seniors with dementia. Bring photo albums, favorite books, or objects with familiar scents. These items can spark conversations and create a sense of security.

Plan Activities

Plan activities that align with your loved one’s interests and abilities. Simple tasks like gardening, puzzles, or art projects can be engaging and enjoyable. Keep activities flexible to accommodate your loved one’s mood and energy levels.

A professional dementia caregiver with training and expertise in methods of cognitive stimulation can also be a wonderful asset. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.

Communicate Effectively

Effective communication is key to connecting with seniors who have dementia. Simple, clear, and compassionate communication can bridge gaps and foster understanding.

Simple Language

Use short sentences and clear language. Avoid complex words or long explanations. Speak slowly and clearly, giving your loved one time to process and respond.

Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language, are vital. Maintain eye contact and use gentle touches to convey warmth and reassurance. Smiling and nodding can show understanding and support.

Active Listening

Active listening involves paying full attention and responding thoughtfully. Allow your loved one to express him or herself, even if the words are jumbled. Validate your loved one’s feelings and experiences, showing you value his or her input.

Engage in Meaningful Activities

Engaging activities can stimulate the mind and provide joy for dementia patients. Tailoring activities to your loved one’s interests and abilities can make visits more fulfilling.

Reminiscence Therapy

Reminiscence therapy involves discussing past experiences and memories. Use photos, music, or familiar objects to trigger memories. This therapy can enhance mood and provide a sense of identity.

Sensory Stimulation

Sensory activities, such as hand massages, aromatherapy, or tactile games, can be soothing and stimulating. These activities engage the senses and can boost mood and focus.

Simple Exercises

Gentle exercises, such as stretching, walking, or chair yoga, can boost physical health and mental wellbeing. Adapt exercises to your loved one’s mobility level to ensure safety and comfort.

Maintain Consistency & Routine

Consistency and routine provide stability for those with dementia. Predictable visits and activities can reduce anxiety and enhance the overall experience.

Regular Visit Schedule

Establish a regular visit schedule to create a sense of predictability. Consistent visits build trust and provide something for your loved one to look forward to.

Familiar Activities

Incorporate familiar activities into each visit. Repeating enjoyable activities can provide comfort and a sense of accomplishment.

Family Members

Encourage family members to participate in visits. Familiar faces and voices can provide additional comfort and support. Sharing the responsibility of visits can also relieve stress for caregivers.

Regular visits from friends and family members can reassure and calm aging loved ones who have dementia. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, medication reminders, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of elder care Oshkosh families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. To learn about our high-quality in-home care plans, call us today.

Navigating the world with dementia is a complex challenge, both for seniors and their caregivers. One critical aspect of care is ensuring the home environment supports these individuals’ changing needs. From enhancing safety to promoting independence, customizing home modifications can make a significant difference.

Understanding Dementia

What Dementia Is

Dementia isn’t a single disease but a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type.

The Impact on Daily Life

Memory loss and confusion can make navigating daily life difficult. Simple tasks may become overwhelming, and familiar environments can feel disorienting.

The Importance of a Supportive Environment

A well-designed home can reduce stress and promote a sense of security. It can also help your loved one maintain independence as much as possible.

One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide senior care. Oshkosh families can turn to Senior Stride Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.

Enhancing Home Safety

Reducing Fall Risks

Falls are a major concern. Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs, and ensure floors are nonslip. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and railings on stairs can also help.

Securing Dangerous Areas

Keep potentially dangerous items like knives, medications, and cleaning supplies out of reach or locked away. Consider using childproof locks on cabinets.

Improving Lighting

Adequate lighting is crucial. Use bright, even lighting throughout the home and consider nightlights for hallways and bathrooms to prevent nighttime falls.

Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior home care. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

Simplifying Navigation

Clear Signage

Labels and signs can help seniors find their way around. Use large, clear text and intuitive symbols for rooms and important items like the bathroom or telephone.

Color Coding

Color coding can further assist with navigation. For example, painting the bathroom door a bright color can make it easier to find.

Decluttering Spaces

Keep spaces uncluttered to reduce confusion and prevent accidents. Arrange furniture in a way that creates clear, wide pathways.

Promoting Independence

Accessible Storage

Store frequently used items within easy reach. This can include placing toiletries on the sink counter or keeping favorite books on a low shelf.

Adaptive Equipment

Adaptive tools, such as utensils with large handles, can help seniors perform daily tasks independently. Look for items specifically designed for people with limited dexterity.

Routine & Familiarity

Maintaining a routine can provide a sense of stability. Keep furniture and essential items in consistent locations to help your loved one feel more secure.

Creating a Calming Atmosphere

Sensory Considerations

Some seniors with dementia are sensitive to noise and light. Use soft, calming colors for décor, and minimize background noise.

Personalized Spaces

Personal items like photos and mementos can create a sense of familiarity and comfort. Consider creating a memory wall with labeled photos of family members and significant life events.

Relaxation Areas

Designate a quiet, comfortable area for relaxation. This could be a cozy corner with a favorite chair and soothing music or a garden space for gentle outdoor activities.

Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Senior Stride Home Care. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today.

Falls account for more than half of all reported senior injuries. However, fall-related injuries are often preventable. Statistics indicate that up to 30 percent of seniors fall every year. As dementia starts to impact various cognitive functions, older adults become more susceptible to falls. However, there are many ways family members can reduce fall risk and keep their elderly loved ones safe. 

Ensure Adequate Lighting

The living spaces occupied by seniors with dementia must have plenty of illumination. Indoor and outdoor walkways should be well lit. Nightlights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and other areas in the home allow for better navigation at night. Consider installing light switches that glow in the dark. Glow-in-the-dark tape strips should also be applied to the front of steps.

Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.

Paint the Home with Contrasting Colors

The colors and hues older adults with dementia perceive differ compared to unaffected seniors. Thus, floors, walls, and furnishings must be significantly different in color. Floors should be solid in color and not have confusing patterns. However, contrasting colors can be used on stairs to indicate each step. Avoid black surfaces, which are often interpreted as holes. 

Clear the Pathways

All walking surfaces must be kept clean, dry, and level. Door stops shouldn’t be more than one inch in height. Area or scatter rugs must be removed or firmly secured to the floor. Indoor and outdoor pathways should be free of clutter, and outdoor walkways must be free of ice and snow during winter. Remove or replace damaged carpets or flooring, and make sure electrical cords are secured out of the way. Keep furnishings to a minimum, and remove any lightweight items that are easily toppled. 

Make the Bathroom Safe

Ensure the bathtub and shower floors have nonslip surfaces. Provide a bath bench or chair to make it easier to enter and exit the shower or tub. Install safety grab bars in the bathing area and on each side of the toilet, and set the hot water heater to below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Consider installing a lifeline pull-type cord for emergencies.

There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional elder care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Invest in Appropriate Footwear

Make sure your loved one’s shoes fit properly and have Velcro closures. Replace the shoes if the soles display excessive wear. Discourage your parent from walking around the home in slippers, socks, or other footwear that doesn’t provide sufficient traction. 

Increase Accessibility to Daily Items

Make sure items stored in the kitchen are at a reachable height, and keep frequently used items in the same location. Label each cupboard with the names of the items it contains. Make sure the stairways and hallways have sturdy railings. If your parent is living in a two-story or split-level home, consider moving his or her bedroom to the ground floor close to a bathroom. Keep favorite items and lamps close to his or her bedside. 

Dementia can make it difficult for older adults to manage everyday activities. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, medication reminders, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of at-home care Oshkosh families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. To learn about our high-quality in-home care options, give us a call today.

Lewy body is a condition that impacts millions of people each year, and it’s caused by the abnormal buildup of proteins in the brain. These proteins are known as Lewy bodies, and they affect cognition, movement, and mental health. Continue reading to learn about Lewy body dementia, including what causes the condition and how it’s treated. 

Age

Most cases of Lewy body dementia involve seniors over the age of 65. Adults under 55 are known to develop this condition, but they do so at lower rates. There’s nothing that can be done to stop the aging process. Still, there are healthy changes elderly people can make to avoid cognitive decline, diminished bone health, and other age-related issues that increase the odds of Lewy body proteins building up in the brain. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, your senior loved one could preserve his or her health and prevent conditions such as Parkinson’s, which also raises the risk of Lewy body dementia.

A highly trained caregiver with experience in caring for seniors with dementia can be a fantastic resource for family members. Families looking for top-rated homecare providers can reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.

Genetics

Even with a healthy diet, an excellent exercise regimen, and an absence of bad habits such as drinking or smoking, older adults could still develop Lewy body dementia due to their family histories. If your loved one has any of the associated genes, especially the APOE gene, the chromosome variations could cause various neurological conditions, including dementia. 

You can have your loved one tested to determine if he or she has inherited the genes associated with Lewy body dementia. Testing positive for the genes doesn’t guarantee your parent will develop the condition, but it does increase the odds. 

Other health issues, when combined with genetics, can lead to the development of this disorder. For example, if your parent has the genes along with heart disease, the odds of being diagnosed with Lewy body dementia increase significantly. 

Symptoms

The most common cognitive symptoms related to this disorder are unpredictable changes in attention span, difficulty solving problems, and confusion. It’s common for seniors with Lewy body dementia to have hallucinations. They’ll see people who don’t exist or smell and hear things that aren’t there. 

If you notice your loved one displaying any of these warning signs, take him or her to the doctor immediately. After receiving a diagnosis, your loved one can begin the treatment process to reduce many of these symptoms and enhance his or her wellbeing. 

For dementia care Oshkosh families can count on, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. Our compassionate caregivers use revolutionary memory care programs to help seniors delay the progression of dementia, and they can also assist with a wide variety of important everyday tasks, including bathing, grooming, exercise, and cooking.

Treatment

Although Lewy body dementia cannot be cured, there are steps seniors can take to slow the progress of the condition. Your loved one’s physician may prescribe medications or various therapies. Your family should make changes to the home to simplify daily tasks and make it easier for your loved one to entertain and socialize with others. 

Another option is to hire a caregiver who specializes in this type of dementia care. The professional caregiver can offer advice that enhances your loved one’s quality of life. 

If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of in-home care Oshkosh, WI, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. If your loved one needs assistance with the challenges of aging, reach out to one of our knowledgeable, compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.

Seniors with dementia may experience hallucinations as their symptoms progress. This can be difficult for caregivers to address, but there are ways to soothe seniors who are having hallucinatory experiences. Ahead, learn more about the types of hallucinations people with dementia experience and the best ways for caregivers to help. 

Types of Hallucinations

Seniors with dementia may have two broad types of hallucinations: visual hallucinations and hallucinations involving other sensory systems. Visual hallucinations, which cause seniors to see things that aren’t really there, are the most common form. These hallucinations can run the gamut from simple to highly detailed. A senior may see anything from flashing lights to a beloved former pet. 

While visual hallucinations are most prevalent, hallucinations can also occur via other forms of sensory perception. Seniors may have tactile hallucinations, auditory hallucinations, and olfactory hallucinations. 

Types of Dementia

Hallucinations are more prevalent with certain forms of dementia, such as dementia associated with Parkinson’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. Seniors with Lewy body dementia may experience visual hallucinations of unusually colored people on a daily basis. Parkinson’s and Lewy body dementia are also more likely to cause auditory, tactile, and olfactory hallucinations than other forms of dementia.

If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of elderly home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Helping a Senior with Hallucinations

If you suspect your senior loved one is hallucinating, you should start by scheduling an appointment with his or her doctor. Before the appointment, try to take detailed notes about the circumstances of the hallucinatory experience: the time of day, the type of hallucination (visual, auditory), medications taken, etc. As some hallucinations are caused by prescription medications, this kind of information may help the doctor pinpoint the source of the problem. 

When your loved one is hallucinating, the best way to help is to be calm and nonconfrontational. While you can try to explain what’s happening, don’t become argumentative. Instead, treat your parent with compassion. Ask your loved one to explain what he or she sees, hears, or feels. Since hallucinations can be triggered by the environment, you can also try to lead your loved one away from his or her current surroundings.

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be extremely challenging, and a compassionate professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh home care service providers can reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.

The Difference between Hallucinations & Visual Mistakes

Hallucinations aren’t the only reason a senior might report seeing a person, animal, or thing that isn’t there. Vision is a complex multistep process, and the impact of dementia on the brain can impede this process in ways that are frustrating but not necessarily indicative of hallucinations. 

There are two main types of visuoperceptual difficulties: misperceptions and misidentifications. Misperceptions involve perceiving one thing to be something else, such as when a senior mistakes a green carpet for grass. Misidentifications happen when the brain faces difficulty with specific, rather than general, identifications. For instance, a senior might misidentify his or her daughter as his or her niece. 

Helping a Senior with Visuoperceptual Difficulties

If visual processing is the cause of the problem, caregivers can help seniors manage their eyesight and their visual environments. Aging adults should have regular optometrist appointments, and they may need different glasses for different activities. 

At home, make sure your loved one’s environment is as easy to see as possible. The more familiar seniors are with their environments, the less likely they are to slip and injure themselves. To increase environmental comfort, keep the arrangement and décor of rooms consistent. Use colors to draw the eye to important spatial information. For example, using a plate that contrasts with the color of the table can make mealtimes easier. Bright, even lighting can also help.

If you’re looking for reliable dementia care, Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care offers high-quality at-home care for seniors who are managing the challenges of cognitive decline. We offer a revolutionary program called the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), which uses mentally stimulating activities to boost cognitive health in the elderly. CTM has proven to help seniors with dementia regain a sense of pride and accomplishment and learn how to engage with others in an enjoyable way. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 today.

Reversible dementia is the type that resolves after the underlying cause has been identified and treated. At the first sign of cognitive decline, it’s essential to see a physician so a diagnosis can be made as soon as possible. Here are five reversible causes of dementia to look for in your senior loved one. 

1. Infections

Bladder, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal infections can cause behaviors similar to those associated with dementia. Infections often cause fevers, and when the body’s temperature gets too high, confusion and cognitive decline can occur. Infections can also cause dehydration, which can lead to dementia-like behavior. Once the infection is appropriately treated, your loved one’s cognitive ability should return. 

2. Brain Disorders

Brain disorders such as tumors (both malignant and benign), concussions, and increased intracranial pressure can all cause reversible dementia. These disorders can impair cerebral blood flow, and when this happens, reasoning skills and memory function may decrease. 

If your loved one becomes forgetful, develops headaches or vision impairment, gets dizzy, or vomits upon awakening—especially if not accompanied by nausea—seek medical attention right away. Once brain disorders are diagnosed and treated, dementia-like symptoms may resolve. 

Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Senior Stride Home Care.

3. Depression

Depression is often characterized by sadness, but it can also cause confusion, memory impairment, loss of appetite, and disinterest in grooming, dressing, and bathing. These signs are similar to those associated with dementia and need to be investigated. 

Depression is a multifactorial illness, and while it can be effectively managed, it can take weeks or even months before your loved one’s symptoms resolve. Antidepressant medications may be helpful in reducing symptoms, but the physician may recommend that your loved one visit a mental health professional to augment treatment. 

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but compassionate help is available. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of elderly home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies can cause dementia-like symptoms, and a lack of vitamin B12 can be especially problematic. This nutrient is essential for optimal brain health, and when people don’t get enough of it, confusion and forgetfulness can occur. 

5. Drug Side Effects

If your loved one takes certain prescription drugs, he or she may develop behavioral changes as a result of their side effects. Medications such as beta blockers, diuretics, antiarrhythmics, and corticosteroids can cause cognitive problems resembling those associated with dementia. 

If you notice personality or mood changes while your loved one is taking medications, call the doctor, who may lower the dosage or discontinue the drug altogether. Once the drug is out of your loved one’s system, side effects and unusual behaviors may resolve. Never discontinue your loved one’s medications without approval from the physician, even if your loved one is exhibiting uncharacteristic behaviors. 

A highly trained caregiver with experience in caring for seniors with dementia can be a fantastic resource for family members. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh senior home care providers can reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.

Being diagnosed with Lewy body dementia can lead to a series of health issues, including depression. However, as a family caregiver, you need to remain supportive and develop methods to boost your senior loved one’s mood. It’s best to know the symptoms associated with Lewy body dementia and how they impact mental, physical, and emotional health. Here are some of the ways this disease can increase the risk of depression and what you can do to prevent it.

Limits Socialization

Lewy body dementia can lead to isolation because it can cause a variety of issues, including the inability to interpret visual information, changes in behaviors and physical appearance, and memory loss. As a result, your loved one is less likely to socialize, which could increase the risk of depression. Although keeping your loved one socially active may be difficult to do, it’s not impossible. For instance, if your loved one enjoyed fishing prior to developing this disease, he or she can still go fishing but will need assistance operating the boat and fishing equipment. Customizing activities and outings to suit your loved one’s needs allows him or her to remain social, which could reduce the risk of depression.

A home caregiver can be a wonderful solution when your aging loved one needs companionship and socialization. Families looking for top-rated in-home care providers can reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.

Causes Hallucinations

Seeing, hearing, smelling, and believing things that aren’t real are symptoms of hallucinations, which cause people to feel sad, hopeless, and depressed. It’s important to provide your loved one with constant care and do everything possible to control his or her hallucinations. Make sure your loved one is taking his or her medications and attending therapy sessions as instructed by a physician.

Promotes Inactivity

Staying physically active is a good way for seniors to fight off stress and anxiety. However, seniors with Lewy body dementia may have mobility issues, including lack of balance, rigid muscles, and hunched posture. Staying active reduces the risk of depression. To help your loved one remain active, encourage doing activities that aren’t strenuous on the body. Suggest simple, fun activities and exercises your loved one can do with little or no help. Engaging in physical activity can help your loved one maintain independence.

If your senior loved one needs professional in-home care in Oshkosh, Home Care Assistance is here to help. We are a trusted provider of respite and 24-hour care, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care for seniors.

Disturbs Sleeping Patterns

Seniors with Lewy body dementia may experience rapid eye movement, which could cause them to act out their dreams, sometimes in a violent manner. The condition disturbs sleeping patterns and prevents the brain from clearing out toxins that impact mood and behavior. If your loved one already has anxiety and depression, lack of sleep caused by illnesses could make them worse. Your loved one can sleep better at night by avoiding exercise before bedtime and going to bed as soon as he or she is tired. Make sure the bedroom is dark and the temperature is set at a comfortable level. Your loved one should also have a nightly routine that includes a warm shower or bath at least an hour before bedtime.

Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Senior Stride Home Care. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.

The changes that occur in the brain due to dementia cannot be reversed. For years, nothing much could be done about dementia, but seniors are now able to benefit from treatments that have the potential to help them enjoy a better quality of life. Some types of dementia respond well to medications that can slow damage to brain cells. Other types require families to focus on providing more natural courses of treatment that include exercise, special diets, and cognitive activities. Leaving dementia untreated can have dire consequences for seniors, including these potential issues.

Losing Abilities

Treatment for dementia is mostly aimed at slowing the progression of a person’s cognitive decline. Dementia is best known for affecting memory, but the changes your senior loved one experiences can also impact other abilities. Seniors who don’t receive treatment may lose their ability to communicate, chew their food, and regulate their behavior. Getting your loved one help now could preserve the abilities he or she has left.

If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of elder care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Experiencing Preventable Injuries

As your loved one’s abilities decrease, he or she is also more likely to make poor judgment calls that could cause him or her to get hurt. Your loved one may decide to tackle a household task that’s more than he or she can handle, which could lead to a nasty cut or fall. Seniors with rapidly progressing dementia might eat spoiled food or drink chemical cleaners they mistake for beverages. Keeping someone near your loved one can prevent him or her from getting hurt.

Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Senior Stride Home Care.

Becoming a Target for Crime

Seniors should be safe in their homes, but this isn’t always the case. Abusers can identify seniors with untreated dementia due to their clear vulnerability. A friend of the family may scam a senior into giving him or her money. A frustrated caregiver could neglect or abuse a senior with dementia. Strengthening your loved one’s ability to think clearly can help him or her identify scammers and know when to tell you or a professional caregiver when something seems wrong.

Failing to Maintain Close Relationships

Seniors with untreated dementia are more likely to experience social isolation that threatens their mental health. Without someone to talk to, seniors often experience changes in their ability to communicate. Some older adults may also lose their motivation to take care of their personal hygiene. Planning social activities can slow the progression of memory loss while preserving your loved one’s ability to connect with other people.

Hurting Someone Else

Your loved one might be the last person you’d ever expect to hurt anyone. Yet someone with dementia who isn’t being treated may make rash decisions that affect others. For instance, your loved one may get behind the wheel of a car and cause a collision or accidentally start a house fire when other people are in the home. Provide your loved one with strategies that minimize this risk. For instance, some seniors may need caregivers to take them to dementia care appointments so they can take care of their cognitive health and avoid hurting anyone else.

There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional at-home care. Oshkosh families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Senior Stride Home Care. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.

Dementia is an umbrella term for conditions associated with cognitive impairment. If your senior loved one is living with more than one form of dementia, his or her condition is referred to as mixed dementia or multifactorial dementia. Because Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, it’s typical for older adults with multifactorial dementia to have AD and another form of dementia such as vascular or Lewy body dementia. Keep reading to learn what you need to know about mixed dementia.

It’s More Likely to Develop Because of Age

The Alzheimer’s Association notes age is a common risk factor for many forms of dementia. The association also says multiple forms of dementia are more likely to develop as affected seniors get older, but not in any specific order. For instance, Alzheimer’s may develop first, and other forms of dementia could come along later.

If your loved one is living with cognitive impairment and other symptoms resulting from dementia, help is just a phone call away. Caring for senior loved ones can be challenging for families who don’t have expertise or professional training in home care, but this challenge doesn’t have to be faced alone. Family caregivers can turn to Home Care Assistance for the help they need. We provide high-quality live-in and respite care as well as comprehensive Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care.

You May Never Know Your Loved One Has Mixed Dementia

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) cites a study based on post-death evaluations of individuals with Alzheimer’s that reported more than half of the subjects had another type of dementia. While research like this suggests mixed dementia may be fairly common, you may never know for sure if your loved one has it during his or her lifetime.

Misdiagnosis Is Common

As mentioned above, it’s common for Alzheimer’s to be one of the types of dementia associated with mixed dementia. For this reason, your loved one may be evaluated and diagnosed with AD based on the symptoms present at the moment. And because there’s no standard test for identifying mixed dementia (or any other type of dementia, for that matter), it’s only likely to be diagnosed if the doctor notices:

• Symptoms not typically associated with Alzheimer’s
• Symptoms that progress faster than what’s typical with AD
• Unexpected reactions to initial treatment/symptom management efforts

Seniors with dementia often need help to be able to live at home safely. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh home care service providers can reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.

FDA-Approved Alzheimer’s Medication May Be Effective

No medications are currently approved specifically for mixed dementia. However, some seniors with multifactorial dementia do respond well to drugs already approved by the FDA to manage AD. According to Verywell Health, studies involving participants with mixed dementia who were given common AD medications reported some improvement in memory and thinking. Others have shown a slowdown in the progression of cognitive decline.

Treatments Specific to Identified Dementias May Be Helpful

If your loved one is diagnosed with mixed dementia, he or she may benefit from treatments for the specific forms of dementia identified. A common mixed dementia combination is Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia, which is related to brain damage caused by a disruption of blood flow, such as what happens during a stroke. If this is the case with your loved one, treatment may involve:

• Managing cholesterol levels
• Lowering blood pressure
• Controlling blood sugar, if your loved one has diabetes

You Should Focus on Your Parent’s Immediate Care Needs

Because it’s entirely possible to not know whether your loved one has mixed dementia, it’s best to simply provide the type of care that’s immediately needed. That being said, if you do notice symptoms that seem out of the ordinary, bring them to the doctor’s attention. Some seniors with mixed dementia also benefit from cognitive-based therapies that help them retain memory capabilities. 

Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Senior Stride Home Care is here to help. We are a leading provider of dementia care. Oshkosh families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at 920-717-1767 today.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports up to 25 percent of adults 65 or older experience falls each year. Up to 51 percent of the injuries resulting from falling include head trauma and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Another 9 percent of traumatic brain injury cases in seniors occur during motor vehicle collisions. Hospital records in the United States show older adults account for more than 80,000 cases of TBI emergency room visits annually. Research shows the trauma the brain endures after a blow to the head makes older adults more likely to develop dementia.

The Extent of Brain Trauma

When an older adult experiences a blow to the head, there may or may not be an open wound. However, dangerous trauma occurs internally. Upon impact, the brain quickly moves in the opposite direction, then reverses movement and impacts the skull at the site of the initial blow. The movements may occur several times if the blow is severe.

The jostling motion tears neurons and delicate blood vessels. The ruptured vessels bleed. Fluid accumulates, and the ventricles and tissues swell, putting pressure on the already-traumatized brain. Researchers have found within hours of a TBI, amyloid proteins and tau plaques begin rapidly accumulating along with other proteins, further damaging neurons.

Although TBIs gradually heal, the trauma they cause may linger. Blood vessels may remain blocked secondary to damage or clot formation. The proteins and plaques continue accumulating months after the injury, and the resulting damage is likely to lead to the onset of dementia symptoms.

Scientists from Sweden’s Umea University assessed the correlation between TBIs and the development of dementia in approximately 300,000 adults. They determined seniors who had experienced TBIs were six times more susceptible to developing cognitive impairment compared to those who had never had a TBI. Their study was published in the January 2018 issue of PLOS Medicine.

Seniors with head injuries often need assistance with everyday activities while they recover. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of senior home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

TBI Dementia Symptoms

Dementia symptoms may occur depending on the severity of the TBI. The type of cognitive impairment that develops is also dependent on the location of the injury. For some older adults, symptoms develop within a month after the injury. In others, symptoms may not become apparent for up to a decade. Even a mild brain injury may cause:

• Confusion 
  • Disorientation 
  • Disrupted sleep patterns 
  • Emotional changes 
  • Headaches 
  • Inability to learn or retain information 
  • Incoherent speech

Seniors with moderate to severe injuries exhibit similar symptoms. However, the cognitive impairment isn’t reversible and progresses with time.

Seniors with dementia can optimize their quality of life with the help of highly trained, experienced professional caregivers. If your senior loved one needs professional dementia care, Oshkosh caregivers are available around the clock to provide the high-quality care he or she needs. Using the revolutionary Cognitive Therapeutics Method, dementia caregivers can help your loved one stay mentally engaged and delay the progression of the disease.

TBI Treatment

Immediately following TBIs, older adults are typically hospitalized and undergo imaging studies to determine the extent of the trauma. Cognitive symptoms and healing progression are monitored over time.

If your loved one has experienced a head injury or is living with dementia, having a trained professional caregiver close by can provide you and your family with much-needed peace of mind. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of senior care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide individualized care plans to meet your elderly loved one’s unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to provide high-quality compassionate professional home care for your loved one. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.