Dementia Care at Home – How Could it Help your Loved One?

Dementia is a transformative and challenging condition, not just for those diagnosed but also for their families and loved ones. The journey, though daunting, can be managed with the right support, ensuring a better quality of life. Family carers often wonder if dementia care at home can provide the necessary support and enhance their loved one’s well-being. At Access Care, we understand these concerns and offer a comprehensive solution through our live-in care services.

In this blog post, we explore the many benefits of dementia care at home, the vital role of a live-in carer, and how Access Care can become your trusted partner in ensuring your loved one's comfort and happiness. 

Let us show you how home care can be a positive and enriching experience for everyone involved.

Understanding Dementia and Its Impact

Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia, among others. 

These conditions impact memory, cognitive abilities, communication skills, and the ability to perform daily tasks. As dementia progresses, the need for personalised and consistent care becomes more and more important.

The Emotional and Physical Toll on Family Carers

Family carers often bear the brunt of caring for their loved ones, balancing their own lives with the demanding responsibilities of looking after a loved one with dementia. The physical and emotional strain can be immense, leading to carer burnout, stress, and even health issues. This is where professional home care services can make a significant difference.

Why Choose Dementia Care at Home?

Opting for dementia care at home offers numerous benefits that can enhance the quality of life for both the person with dementia and their family carers. Here are some key advantages:

Comfort of Familiar Surroundings

Staying in a familiar environment can be incredibly comforting for our loved ones with dementia, or anyone for that matter! The recognition of their home, personal belongings, and cherished memories can provide a sense of security and stability, which is crucial for managing anxiety and confusion associated with dementia.

Personalised and One-on-One Care Live-In Care

Home care allows for highly personalised care schedules, tailored to the unique needs and preferences of the person living with dementia. Unlike institutional settings, a live-in carer provides one-on-one attention, ensuring that all aspects of the person's well-being are addressed comprehensively.

Maintaining a Routine

Consistency is vital for people lived with dementia. A live-in carer can help maintain a structured daily routine, from meal times to activities and medication schedules. This consistency can significantly reduce confusion and agitation.

Enhanced Quality of Life

With the support of a live-in carer, people with dementia can continue to engage in activities they enjoy, whether it's gardening, reading, or spending time with loved ones. The presence of a compassionate companion ensures they remain socially active and mentally stimulated.

Peace of Mind for Family Carers

Knowing that a trained and experienced live-in carer is looking after your loved one provides immense peace of mind. Family carers can focus on their own well-being, careers, and other responsibilities, confident that their loved one is in the  capable hands of their live-in carer.

Alternatives to Dementia Care at Home

While dementia care at home offers lots of  benefits, it is essential to consider all available options to ensure the best possible live-in care for your loved one. Here are some viable alternatives:

Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities provide a structured environment with 24/7 support. These facilities cater to people who need assistance with daily activities but still wish to maintain some level of independence. Assisted living communities often offer specialised dementia care wings designed to meet the specific needs of their residents with dementia, providing social interaction and structured activities to enhance their quality of life.

Nursing Homes

Nursing homes, or skilled nursing facilities, offer comprehensive medical care for individuals with advanced dementia. These facilities are equipped with medical personnel, including nurses and physicians, to manage complex health needs and provide round-the-clock care. Nursing homes are suitable for people who require a high level of medical attention and support with daily living activities.

Adult Day Care Centres

Adult day care centres offer a middle-ground solution for families who prefer to keep their loved ones at home but need additional support during the day. These centres provide structured programs, social activities, and therapeutic services in a safe and stimulating environment. Attending an adult day care centre can also give family carers a much-needed break to attend to their personal responsibilities.

Short Term Respite Care

Short term respite care services provide temporary relief for family carers by offering short-term respite care for people living with dementia. This can be arranged either at home through respite live-in care providers or in a dedicated facility. Respite care is an excellent way for family carers to take a break and recharge, knowing their loved one is receiving professional and compassionate care.

Memory Care Units

Memory care units are specialised facilities usually found within an assisted living or nursing home, dedicated to individuals with dementia. These units are designed to provide a secure environment with structured routines, specialised activities, and tailored care plans to address the unique challenges of dementia. Staff in memory care units are trained to handle the behavioural and cognitive symptoms associated with the condition.

Each of these alternatives has its own set of advantages and considerations. It is crucial to evaluate the specific needs of your loved one and seek professional advice to determine the most suitable care option.

At Access Care, we are committed to helping you navigate these choices and find the best solution for your family's unique circumstances.

The Role of a Live-in Carer

At Access Care, our live-in carers play a pivotal role in providing dementia care at home. They are more than just home carers; they are companions, advocates, and trusted friends. 

Here's how they can make a difference:

Comprehensive Live-in Care and Support

Our live-in carers are trained to handle the complexities of in home dementia care. They help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, meal preparation, and medication management. They also provide emotional support and companionship, fostering a nurturing and positive environment.

Monitoring Health and Well-being

A live-in carer continuously monitors the health and well-being of their client, ensuring any changes in condition are promptly addressed. They liaise with healthcare professionals, keep detailed records, and ensure that medical appointments are attended.

Promoting Independence

While providing essential support, our live-in carers encourage their clients with dementia to maintain their independence as much as possible. They empower them to make choices and participate in activities, promoting a sense of purpose and dignity.

Personalised Activities and Engagement

Our live-in carers tailor activities to the interests and abilities of their client, from music therapy to light exercises or reminiscing sessions. By engaging in meaningful activities, individuals with dementia can experience joy and mental stimulation, which are crucial for their overall well-being.

Safety and Security

Safety is a paramount concern when caring for someone with dementia. Our live-in carers ensure a secure home environment by minimising hazards, securing exits, and using monitoring devices if necessary. Their presence offers constant supervision, reducing the risk of wandering and accidents.

Creating a Familiar Routine

Maintaining a consistent daily routine is essential for people living  with dementia. Our live-in carers establish and follow structured schedules to provide a sense of familiarity and stability. This predictable routine can help reduce anxiety and confusion, making day-to-day life more manageable for your loved one.

Facilitating Social Interaction

Social engagement is a critical aspect of dementia care. Our live-in carers encourage and facilitate social interactions by involving their home care client community activities, family gatherings, and outings. They help maintain connections with friends and family, which can significantly enhance emotional well-being and reduce feelings of isolation.

Tailored Nutrition and Hydration Support

Proper nutrition and hydration are vital for individuals with dementia. Our live-in carers create personalised meal plans that cater to dietary preferences and nutritional needs. They monitor food and fluid intake to ensure your loved one remains healthy and hydrated, adjusting meals as necessary to accommodate any changes in health or appetite.

Crisis and Emergency Management

In cases of emergencies or sudden health crises, our live-in carers are trained to respond quickly and effectively. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle various situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the individual. From handling medical emergencies to managing behavioural crises, our home carers provide calm and decisive support during critical moments.

Support for Families

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be emotionally and physically demanding for families. Our live-in carers offer invaluable support, not only to the person with dementia but also to family members. By providing respite and practical assistance, they help families navigate the challenges of dementia care with confidence and reassurance.

Short Term Respite Care

At times, family carers need a brief but essential period of rest to attend to personal responsibilities or simply recharge their emotional and physical reserves. Short term respite care offers a structured solution that means your loved one continues to receive the highest standard of care while you take necessary time for yourself. 

This service can range from a few days to several weeks and provides dedicated, professional support tailored to the specific needs of the person with dementia.

By opting for short term respite care, you can rest assured that your loved one is in a safe, nurturing environment where their daily routines and medical requirements are diligently maintained. 

Our respite care services are brought to your loved one in their home, with their very own live-in carer coming to stay with them in their home. Whether it's a planned family holiday, unexpected situation, or just a scheduled break, short term respite care can be an invaluable resource for maintaining your well-being and ensuring the continuity of exceptional care for your loved one.

How Access Care Can Help

Choosing the right care solution for your loved one is a critical decision. At Access Care, we are committed to providing exceptional live-in care services that prioritise the well-being and happiness of your loved one. Here's what sets us apart:

Experienced and Compassionate Home Carers

Our team of live-in carers is carefully selected based on their experience, qualifications, and, most importantly, their compassion and dedication. We believe that empathy and kindness are as crucial as skills and expertise in providing exceptional care.

Continuous Support and Supervision

At Access Care, we provide ongoing support and supervision to our home carers to ensure the highest standards of home care are maintained. Regular check-ins, assessments, and feedback mechanisms are in place to monitor the quality of care and make necessary adjustments.

Building Strong Relationships

We believe in building strong relationships with our live-in care clients and their families. Open communication, transparency, and mutual respect are the cornerstones of our approach. We work closely with families to ensure they are informed, involved, and satisfied with the care provided.

A Day in the Life of a Live-in Carer

To give you a better understanding of what to expect from a live-in carer, here’s a glimpse into a typical day:

Morning Routine

The day begins with assisting your loved one with their morning routine, including bathing, dressing, and grooming. Breakfast is prepared and served, followed by any necessary medication administration.

Engaging Activities

The live-in carer engages your loved one in stimulating and enjoyable activities tailored to their interests. This could include light exercises, puzzles, gardening, or even a walk around the neighbourhood.

Meal Preparation

Nutritious and balanced meals are prepared, considering any dietary restrictions or preferences. Lunch is served, and the home carer ensures your loved one stays hydrated throughout the day.

Afternoon Care

In the afternoon, the live-in carer might assist with household chores, take your loved one to medical appointments, or simply sit down for a chat and offer some companion care. They make sure their home care client remains active and engaged.

Evening Routine

Dinner is prepared and served, followed by the evening routine, which includes personal hygiene and preparing for bed. The live-in carer ensures your loved one is comfortable and settled for the night.

Overnight Support

Live-in carers provide overnight support, ensuring they are available should any needs arise during the night. They offer reassurance and assistance, allowing your loved one to sleep peacefully.

Dementia Care Statistics in the UK

Understanding the landscape of dementia care in the UK is crucial for grasping the scale of support required and the impact it has on families and the healthcare system. Here are some key statistics:

• Prevalence: There are currently around 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK. This number is projected to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and 2 million by 2050 due to the ageing population.

• Diagnosis: Only about 68% of those with dementia in England receive a formal diagnosis. Improving diagnostic rates is critical for accessing support and treatment.

• Economic Impact: Dementia costs the UK economy £26.3 billion a year, with £17.4 billion of this cost being shouldered by unpaid carers, usually family members.

• Cost of Care: The average annual cost of dementia care per person is £32,250, which includes healthcare, unpaid care, and social care costs. Residential care homes specifically average around £45,760 per year per resident.

• Carer Statistics: There are an estimated 700,000 unpaid carers for people with dementia in the UK. Many of these carers dedicate over 100 hours a week to caring for their loved ones.

• Gender Disparity: Two-thirds of the people living with dementia are women. Additionally, informal carers are more likely to be female, often affecting their employment and financial stability.

These statistics highlight the profound impact of dementia on individuals and families, as well as the importance of informed, compassionate care solutions. At Access Care, we are dedicated to providing exceptional dementia care at home support tailored to meet the needs of those affected by this condition.

How to Get Started with Access Care

If you believe that live-in dementia care at home might be the right solution for your loved one, getting started with Access Care is simple:

1. Initial Consultation: You can start the ball rolling by dropping us an email to hello@access-care.co.uk, or if easier for you, call us directly on 01624 319 399. We will schedule an initial consultation to understand your needs and discuss our services.

2. Assessment and Planning: Our team will conduct a thorough assessment of your loved one’s needs, preferences, and health condition to create a tailored care package.

3. Matching with one of our Home Carers: We carefully match your loved one with a suitable live-in carer based on their expertise, personality, and compatibility.

4. Ongoing Support: Once live-in care begins, we provide continuous support, supervision, and regular assessments to ensure the highest quality of home care.

Testimonials from Families

Here are some heartwarming testimonials from families who have experienced the benefits of Access Care's dementia care at home:

"Access Care has been a blessing for our family. The live-in carer they provided is not only professional but also incredibly compassionate. Our mother feels secure and happy in her own home, and we have peace of mind knowing she is well-cared for." - Sarah T.

"The personalised care plan and attention to detail have made a significant difference in my father's life. He enjoys his daily activities, and his overall well-being has improved. We are grateful for the support and kindness of Access Care." - James W.

"We were initially unsure about having a live-in carer, but Access Care made the transition seamless. The home carer has become like a member of our family, and my husband, who has dementia, looks forward to her presence each day. Her support has been invaluable, and I am relieved knowing he is in such good hands." - Emma L.

"Access Care truly understands the unique challenges of dementia care. The live-in carer’s dedication, patience, and expertise have given my grandmother a new lease on life. She is not just surviving but thriving, thanks to the tailored activities and compassionate home care she receives. We couldn’t ask for more." - Lee A.

Support Services for UK Alzheimer’s and Dementia Sufferers

Navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia can be overwhelming, but there are numerous support services available in the UK that are available for those living with dementia and their families. At Access Care, we aim to provide comprehensive information and guidance to ensure you can access the necessary resources.

Alzheimer’s Society

The Alzheimer’s Society is a leading care and research charity that provides support and advocacy for individuals affected by dementia. They offer a range of services including a Dementia Connect support line, online resources, and local support groups.

Dementia UK

Dementia UK provides support through its specialist Admiral Nurses, who are trained to offer expert guidance on managing complex needs associated with dementia. They can provide support via phone, email, or in-person visits to offer tailored advice and coping strategies.

Age UK

Age UK offers various services and support networks for older people, including those living with dementia. They provide information on topics such as legal rights, financial assistance, and care options. Additionally, Age UK operates local branches that offer community engagement activities and short term respite care.

Local Authority Services

Local authorities in the UK provide assessments and support services for those living with dementia under the Care Act 2014. They can offer personalised care plans, direct payments to manage care, and access to day centres or short-term respite care to alleviate carer strain.

Carers UK

Carers UK supports individuals who are looking after loved ones with dementia. They provide practical advice, emotional support, and advocacy to ensure carers are aware of their rights and can access the help they need, including financial assistance and training opportunities.

By leveraging these support services, you can find the help and resources necessary to manage the journey of dementia care more effectively. Access Care is also here to assist you by connecting you with these organisations and providing comprehensive live-in care designed around your loved one’s unique needs.

Could Live-In Care Be The Answer For Your Loved One?

Dementia care at home offers a viable and beneficial alternative to institutional care, allowing your loved one to remain in the comfort of their own home while receiving personalised and compassionate support. At Access Care, we are dedicated to providing exceptional live-in care services that prioritise the well-being and happiness of your loved one.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01624 319 399 for a no-obligation chat about how we could help support your loved one, or drop us an email at hello@access-care.co.uk. We would love to hear from you! Your loved one's comfort and dignity are our top priorities, and we look forward to being your trusted partner in this journey.