Sunday 30 October 2011

Ailments and Diseases That Require Elderly Care Services

By Adam J Bradley


The longer older people can stay independent and care for themselves, the better. There, however, comes a time when living alone becomes a problem and sometimes it can even become dangerous.

Understand Dementia Dementia involves the loss of memory over time, and it may seem so gradual that dementia isn't even considered as the problem. Perhaps you've heard your aging parent mention that they are starting to forget things. Or, they may seem confused about common, everyday activities. Maybe they are getting frustrated about things that never bothered them before. There are many types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Unfortunately, memory loss is a beginning problem for Alzheimer sufferers. They also lose their sense of judgment, their ability to function unimpaired and, eventually, their ability to do even the simplest tasks for themselves. It is a slow and painfully debilitating disease for the sufferer, as well as the person providing elderly care for them. A comfortable, calm, and peaceful setting can do wonders when providing elderly care for loved ones with dementia. The goal is to keep their environment as trauma-free as possible, concentrating on their comfort and needs.

Look at Life From Their Perspective Forgetting common things and losing familiar memories can bring out fear and anger in a person. Sometimes, this is manifested in a difficult or ungrateful attitude toward caregivers. They may become argumentative when you question them about their day. As a caregiver, you need to understand and review with them where they have been, what they were doing, or what they can remember. However, coming from the perspective of your aging parent suffering from this memory loss, it is like being treated like a child in the midst of feeling like an invalid. They are already struggling with their lack of mental alertness, and now they must also deal with their own child checking up on them. This role reversal can be somewhat embarrassing for them, and understanding their perspective can make a difference in how conversations are approached.

Caregiver Caregivers are the preferred and easiest option for elder people, most of the time. It will allow them to stay in their own homes without too much disruption in their lives. They still feel more independent and can be in a familiar environment. Caregivers, however, don't come cheap. If the elderly, family members or children can afford this kind of help, you will find it is much easier to convince them to accept this rather than trying to get them to move into a facility for the elderly.

Living With a Child or Family Member Some elderly people are more open to this kind of move, than to move to an old age facility. This is not always the best option for the child or family member, though. The person who will be responsible for the elderly person must want do it. It will be a time consuming task that needs to be done with lots of love and patience. It is also a big responsibility that cannot be forced on anyone.

Cancer is the leading cause of death in America today and can affect people of all ages. However, as you begin to age, your risk of developing cancer does increase. There are over 100 types of cancer and they can range in severity. Treatment methods include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Depending on the cancer and how far along it has progressed, one might benefit from home aides or assisted living. Sometimes this can be a temporary solution after an intense surgery.

These are just a few of many diseases that may require assistance. If you feel that your loved ones are having difficulties living on their own, seek out elderly care facilities in your area.




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