SARA knows that each person with Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia will experience its symptoms and progression differently. Therefore, caregiving techniques need to be individual as well.
SARA’s team of healthcare experts meet with the patient and their family to create an individualized care plan to manage Alzheimer’s or Dementia care in the home. SARA aides look to provide a safe environment, reduce frustration and provide flexibility with compassion and empathy.
SARA believes that one of the best ways to work with patients with Alzheimer’s or Dementia is by ensuring caregivers are educated. SARA’s HHA Training Program and bi-annual continuing education classes provide Alzheimer’s and dementia training to all caregivers, given by either our Director of Patient Services or our RN instructor. Also, SARA arranged for our top aides to learn the CARE patient centered approach in a special Alzheimer’s Association of America class. Our training teaches caregivers to treat the entire person’s needs and not just the symptoms of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Our caregivers attend to both the physical and mental health needs of our clients.
Dementia home care is different. Caregivers provide all the regular home care services for daily living, but at the same time must be familiar with the stages and types of dementia; how these affect their patients; and be able to help the patient with common problematic behavior by applying strategies to deal with such issues. The aide makes sure the patient is safe and well-cared for each day. We encourage SARA’s caregivers to consider the likes, dislikes, and personality of the patient.
SARA caregivers are also taught the importance of engagement with their patient and to encourage them using brain and physical activities that will help stimulate the mind; strengthen the body, and soothe them.
There are several reasons why Alzheimer’s in-home care often works well for both the patient and family, especially in the beginning stages of the disease.
- Familiar environments tend to provide security and peace of mind
- The home can be updated for safety and special needs with minimal disruption
- Routines are less disrupted at home rather than in a facility, especially in the early stages of the disease
- SARA’s trained Alzheimer’s/dementia caregivers provide one-to-one care while observing any changes in the current well-being of the patient
- Individual engagement with others is often higher at home and can be tailored to the specific needs and desires of the patient and family
- At home, a patient isn’t force to participate in group activities that don’t interest or upset them
- The level, type, and amount of care can be adjusted to the the patient’s and family’s needs
Dementia home care provided by a trained professional allows for dignity, security and comfort for the person needing care and provides peace of mind for the family.