Dementia and Your Loved One
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Dementia and Your Loved One

I've been a caretaker of an elderly woman with dementia for over two years. I've seen the effects of this mental affliction, and how devastating it can be to loved ones. This is why I am a firm believer in seeking a professional diagnosis, so the patient may receive necessary care and treatment. Once diagnosed at the onset of symptoms, a plan can be devised. Through social interaction and daily care, my charge has achieved a higher quality of life. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you can make a difference. Love will find a way.

Dementia and Your Loved One

Understanding How Adult Health Day Care Facilities Work

Vickie Armstrong

If you are taking care of a parent at home, then you are likely the sole caretaker of your mother or father. This can be stressful and overwhelming. If you feel this way some days, then you do have the option of looking into special services to help with your care. Adult day health care is an option and is offered at some senior centers and other facilities. Keep reading to learn what these centers are and also how they may be of benefit.

What Do Adult Health Facilities Offer?

Adult health facilities offer in-facility services for your loved one. This means that your parent will take part in the services at the dedicated facility and you have the option of transporting them there on your own or working with the care center to have your loved one picked up. 

The care facility will offer both health and social services in most cases. The health services will include different kinds of therapy like occupational, physical, speech, and rehabilitation. Sometimes, social workers and other professionals will be on site to manage care and work with local physicians to ensure that doctors appointments are made and transportation is arranged. In some cases, nurses may be available to provide more advanced care and to ensure that needs, like diabetic care, is attended to.

Dieticians may also be available to address nutritional needs and personal care counseling and assistance may be attended to. Social activities that include interactive games, group activities, meditation, and exercise classes are available too. 

What Are the Benefits of Care Facilities?

Adult health day facilities have quite a few different benefits. They allow you freedom during the day to attend to children or to go to work without stressing about whether or not your loved one is healthy and safe. They also allow for socialization and engagement which have been shown to encourage good health in the elderly population. The facilities also allow for movement and exercise which can keep your loved one independent and out of nursing facilities for a longer period of time. 

You should know that day health facilities can be seen as a bit of an investment, with some costing as much as $300 or even more a week for care provided three to five days a week. And, while this is true, the costs can often be reimbursed my medicare and other insurance companies, so look into this if the cost is a concern of yours.

If you want to know more about adult health day care facilities, speak with a community care facility such as the San Diego Family Circle Adult Day Health Center.


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