Getting older and dealing with a progressive brain disorder such as Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia isn’t easy. Naturally, most people prefer to live as independently and self-sufficiently as they can at home, for as long as possible. The trouble is, when you have Alzheimer’s or dementia, your ability to take care of yourself may not be as reliable as it used to be. You may not be able to prepare regular meals or eat as healthfully as you should. You might forget to take your medications or supplements. Or you might neglect to visit your doctor when you’re supposed to.

Home health care can provide an invaluable set of helping hands. Professional caregivers can assist with nearly every aspect of your life, allowing you or a loved one to remain in a safe, comfortable, familiar environment, while having your personal needs fulfilled. To that end, you might consider help with the following:

• Personal care including bathing, dressing, using the bathroom, eating, and exercising
• Home-safety modifications to prevent someone with dementia from having an accident as well as the introduction of a personal safety response system
• Ambulatory service, such as transportation and an escort to and from various doctors’ appointments that may be necessary in your care
• Medication management to prevent potentially dangerous drug interactions or side effects and to ensure that prescribed drugs for Alzheimer’s/dementia, mood changes, behavior or sleep problems are being taken properly
• Money management, such as paying bills and updating bank records
• Assistance with accessing financial or insurance entitlements and other benefits, and dealing with legal issues, such as power of attorney or advance directives
• Scheduling of doctors’ appointments and other necessary meetings
• Arrangements for getting medical equipment and safety-related supplies for home use
• Companionship or respite care, which may allow loved ones a needed break