Trusted Home Care & Placement Services in Fort Collins, CO

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Home Care

As a home care and placement services company, we want to be the one place people can turn to get the answers they need.  We want to be a trusted advisor and a resource center for those who do not know where to go.  Over our 20 years in this industry, we have been recognized for providing unmatched support and value and for creating effective, quality, and innovative community-based long-term care support programs for the community we serve.

We recognize that our staff, with all their hard work and dedication, is the single most important key to our success and we strive every day to find better ways to support and show appreciation towards our staff. Our employees enjoy a family-friendly office environment that offers flexibility in a low stress, low-pressure environment. This in turn, allows our clients to experience the best in customer service.

Caring for a loved one with Dementia or Alzheimer’s can be a difficult challenge for anyone. That is why at Talem Home Care, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers to meet your Homemaking and Companion Care needs.

We are committed to helping you or your loved one maintain a safe and independent lifestyle so that you can remain in your own home as long as possible. Our in-home care service is designed to provide support and assistance with the Activities of Daily Living. Every Talem Home Care caregiver comes with the knowledge and skills needed to work with and provide support for clients impacted by degenerative memory conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. 

Additionally, at Talem, we have created a specialized service program designed to keep the brain active and stimulated. Our services include:

  • brain fitness activities to keep the mind active and sharp
  • active involvement activities designed to keep your loved one engaged
  • the ability to be customized to your needs

Education and Information

Dementia is a common condition that affects fifteen percent of people over the age of 65.  It includes a group of brain-related diseases that manifests itself with the loss of intellectual functions such as thinking, reasoning, and memory to the point that it adversely affects daily living activities.  Suspected causes are:

  • Degenerative – Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Vascular – stroke; infectious neurosyphilis, AIDS…
  • Toxic – alcohol, drug use, or heavy metals
  • Metabolic- thyroid disease
  • Depression
  • Head trauma
  • Brain tumors or subdural hematoma

The diagnosis is generally based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, neurological exam, lab tests, and mental status exam.  The two most commonly used cognitive tests are the Mini-Mental Status Exam (MMS) and the Mental Status Questionnaire (MSQ).  Depending on the suspected cause, additional tests may be performed (e.g., EKG or EEG).

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia.  It involves the area of the brain that controls thought, memory, and language.  AD causes a loss of nerve cells in the areas of the brain that are vital to memory and other mental abilities.  Currently, there is no cure for the disease, but there are medications prescribed that help manage the disease.

What Services are Provided for Alzheimer's and Dementia Patients?

With the right support, you can help your loved one navigate the challenges of their condition with ease. In-home care services are available to assist those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, allowing them to remain in the comfort of their own home. 

Home care services provide a variety of options to meet the needs of each individual, such as assistance with daily activities, nutritional support, medication reminders, and personal care. 

A home care provider can also help with transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other errands. Most importantly, they provide companionship and a supportive environment to assist with the emotional and psychological aspects of living with dementia.

Find Alzheimer’s & Dementia Home Care in Ault, Berthoud, Eaton, Evans, Fort Collins, Garden City, Greeley, Johnstown, Laporte, Loveland, Milliken, Nunn, Pierce, Wellington, Windsor CO and surrounding areas.

Alzheimer's & Dementia Care by Talem Home Care & Placement Services

Learn more About Us and what sets us apart from the rest. Our leadership, mission, values and vision have allowed us to shine above the rest.

How Does Alzheimer's Home Care Help with Respite Care?

You know how difficult it can be to care for a loved one with memory problems; respite care can be a much-needed break for both you and your family member. 

Alzheimer’s home care provides a variety of services to help with respite care. These can include providing care for your loved one while you take a break, assisting with errands or activities, or providing companionship and socialization.

Talem Home Care can also provide additional support, such as providing educational resources about Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, providing counseling or emotional support, and providing access to resources such as transportation or support groups. This can help you and your family member to stay connected and feel supported during difficult times. Additionally, many Alzheimer’s home care providers are trained to provide specialized care for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, allowing them to provide the best possible care for your loved one.

Our skilled and dedicated leadership team has been working in health care for over 20 years. Click here to see the rest of our Care Services.

Alzheimer's Disease Three Main Stages

Families can take a proactive step by verifying their legal affairs (wills, trusts, powers-of-attorney, etc.). As the disease progresses, the ability to make legal decisions diminishes greatly.  A consultation with a financial planner and an attorney that specializes in estate planning and/or elder law will be beneficial at this point. 

It may be necessary to hire a caregiver to assist with the major lifestyle adaptations that a family must make.  Involving the entire family early on in the decision-making process is preferable.  The care recipient should be part of the decision-making process – rather than being forced to accept help.  As needs change, it may not be appropriate to continue services in the home. A social worker that specializes in long-term illnesses will be a valuable resource.  Also, there are multiple support groups available.

Early stage
(2 - 4 year duration)

This stage occurs over a two to four-year period in which cognitive changes are diagnosed.  These changes can include both personality and mood changes.  The patient may also have difficulty with decision-making, memory issues, and routine tasks like writing checks or simple addition.

Symptoms

  • Recent memory loss
  • Progressive forgetfulness
  • Confusion regarding directions, money management, and decisions
  • Loss of initiative and spontaneity
  • Repetitive statements and actions
  • Personality, mood, and judgment changes
  • Disorientation of place and time

Middle stage
(2 - 10 year duration)

Memory often becomes much worse. Patients’ ability to pay attention to personal care needs, reasoning, communication, and hygiene may diminish.  At this stage, full-time care and supervision are needed.

Symptoms

  • Increased memory loss, confusion, and shorter attention span
  • Wandering
  • Difficulty recognizing friends and family
  • Occasional muscle twitching or jerking
  • Difficulty with logical thinking or organizing thoughts
  • Hallucinations

Final stage
(1 -3 year duration)

In this stage, there is a further decrease in mental function and communication.  At this stage, the patient is no longer able to recognize family members, friends, and caregivers.  This stage is very frustrating for loved ones.  Patients in the final stage will stop speaking, lose muscle control and swallowing reflexes, slip into a coma, and eventually die.

Symptoms

  • Unable to recognize self in mirror
  • Loss of weight – even with proper diet
  • Unable to care for themselves
  • Unable to speak
  • Incontinence
  • A compulsion for touching and will try to put things in their mouth
  • Extended sleeping periods
  • May groan, scream or make grunting noises

Your Family is Our Family

No family should experience the stresses of aging without the needed information to make the best decision. Our Certified Senior Advisors® are dedicated to providing compassion, dedication, professionalism, and advice to give the reassurance we all need when helping our loved ones. 

Contact us today to start the conversation on how our core values and philosophy of care can help you and your family.
Home Care Services by Talem Home Care & Placement Services
Alzheimer's & Dementia Care by Talem Home Care & Placement Services

Is Overnight Care Available for Dementia Patients Who Wander at Night?

If your loved one is prone to wandering at night, overnight care is an option to ensure their safety and peace of mind. Overnight care for dementia patients can involve having a caregiver stay in the home with the patient where they will be monitored. This type of care is especially beneficial for those who have a tendency to wander at night, as it provides the assurance that they are safe and secure while they sleep.

Overnight care for dementia patients also provides a sense of comfort and security in knowing that someone is there to look out for their wellbeing and to help them if they become confused or disoriented. 

Having a caregiver who is knowledgeable about dementia and the associated behaviors can make a huge difference in helping to keep the patient safe and secure. Overnight care is an invaluable way to provide peace of mind and ensure that your loved one is receiving the best care possible.

Can Dementia Home Care Help with "Sundowning"?

Sundowning is a common symptom of dementia, where a patient may become increasingly confused and agitated in the late afternoon or evening hours. Dementia home care can help to manage this symptom in a number of ways:

  • Create a safe, calming environment. A dementia home care provider can help to create a safe environment that is free from distractions and stressors. This could include dimming lights, playing soothing music, and avoiding loud noises.
  • Provide companionship and understanding. It can be difficult to cope with the changes brought on by dementia, but a home care provider can provide emotional support and understanding. This can help to reduce anxiety and agitation in the evening hours.
  • Engage in activities. Participating in activities like puzzles, reading, or playing board games can help dementia patients to stay engaged and focused. This can reduce sundowning symptoms and help to create a sense of purpose and well-being.

Dementia home care can be a valuable resource for those who are dealing with sundowning. By creating a safe and comfortable environment, providing companionship and understanding, and engaging in activities, a home care provider can help to alleviate the symptoms and make the evening hours a more pleasant experience.

How Long Can My Loved One with Alzheimer's Remain at Home?

For those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, the decision of how long to provide home care can be difficult. Here are some points to consider when making this difficult decision:

  • Evaluate the safety of the home environment: An assessment of the home environment should be conducted to identify potential risks, such as stairs, sharp objects, and slippery surfaces.
  • Assess medical needs: Caregivers should assess the medical needs of their loved one to ensure that they have access to the care and medications they need.
  • Monitor changes in behavior: As the disease progresses, changes in behavior can occur. It is important to monitor these changes and adjust care as needed.

Ultimately, the decision of how long to provide home care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is a deeply personal one. However, with the right resources and support, families can find comfort in knowing that their loved one can remain safe and comfortable at home for as long as possible.

What safety measures should be taken to prevent wandering and falls?

To prevent wandering and falls, it is important to assess the environment for potential hazards. Look for items that could cause a tripping hazard, such as rugs, cords, and furniture. Secure locks on all doors and windows, and install alarms that will sound if the person attempts to leave the home. It is also important to ensure the person always wears an identification bracelet in case they do wander off. Finally, check the home often for any changes that could cause the person to become disoriented or confused.

What kinds of activities can be done with an Alzheimer's or dementia patient while at home?

When caring for an Alzheimer’s or dementia patient at home, it’s important to provide meaningful activities that can help to engage them. Activities like board games, puzzles, and coloring books can help keep their minds active, while activities like gardening, music and art can help stimulate their senses. It’s also important to involve the patient in activities that can help maintain their physical health, such as going for a walk or doing some light stretching exercises. Ultimately, the goal is to provide positive, engaging activities that can support and enrich the patient’s quality of life.

Contact us today to start the conversation on how our core values and philosophy of care can help you and your family.

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