Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care

Alzheimer’s and other dementias impact each person differently which is why person-centered care is so very important when considering supportive services at home. Research shows that comfortable, familiar surroundings and routine can reduce stress for clients experiencing cognitive decline. Home is often the best choice for keeping routine and familiar surroundings and for providing comfort. Lifeline Homecare provides the person-centered service you need by focusing on safety as well as, mental and physical well-being with the goal of preserving dignity and quality of life.

One of the first things Lifeline Homecare care coordinators and caregivers do is to gather important information about each client. By learning where they lived as a child, where they went to school, where they worked, about their marriage and family, what their hobbies were, their religious preferences, consistent routines, favorite foods, etc., we can provide support and conversation as we assist with activities of daily living (such as bathing, dressing, dining).

Knowing clients on a personal level, especially those with cognitive decline, allows us to better understand some moments of confusion and diffuse some of the resistive behaviors that often manifest while providing personal care services. Spending quality time with clients, having meaningful conversations about familiar preferences and allowing choice adds to the familiarity and routines that are important to the client and family.

Another key element of caring for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementias is the art of redirection rather than correction.  Rather than being argumentative or too direct, our caregivers are trained in presenting appropriate choices and guiding rather than creating uncomfortable situations.

Lifeline Homecare caregivers go through specific training in order to provide services to clients with dementia diagnoses. Some caregivers go above the required trainings and have chosen to specialize in providing care to those experiencing need as a result of dementia diseases.

Alzheimer’s and other dementias are progressive diseases and the needs of clients and families change as abilities decline and family caregivers tire. Lifeline Homecare offers flexibility in scheduling services so families can preserve resources and avoid unwanted, often unnecessary decline, ultimately resulting in better satisfaction and outcomes.

Services often needed to care for clients with dementia diseases at home:

• Respite to relieve family caregivers
• Companionship to provide for client safety
• Personal care to help with bathing, dressing, toileting, light housekeeping, chores
• Medication management to ensure accurate dosage, timeframe and safety
• Meal preparation and dining assistance
• Companionship while family caregivers work, rest or perform own routines