Senior care expert offers ways to make homes safer for aging parents, advice on care options

For families living with the realities of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, awareness comes in many forms with unexpected challenges. More than 5 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. While there is no cure, there are care options that bring peace of mind and relief to worried families.

“We have heard the stories time and again from clients’ families and friends,” said Troy Tice, owner of Amada Senior Care North Houston. “Recently, a 92-year-old woman was found wandering in a local parking lot, flagging people down to ask for help withdrawing cash. The woman had, in fact, already withdrawn cash, and was confused of her whereabouts. Thankfully, this situation was resolved by good Samaritans, but the outcomes can be – and sometimes are – much worse.”

Every minute, someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s. Families are concerned for aging parents and grandparents, but elder generations are reluctant to change homes or living situations, even with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. “We know the changes can be sudden and families panic when having to deal with these life-changing decisions. Maintaining some level of independence is important to everyone, and we should take that into consideration when planning our own long-term care or that of our loved ones,” said Tice.

Although individuals with Alzheimer’s are at a higher risk for car accidents, getting lost and falling, a diagnosis doesn’t have to mean immediate upheaval. “Alzheimer’s doesn’t mean an automatic change in residence. The option that most people explore is in finding a way to allow mom and dad to ‘age in place,’ meaning stay at home while getting assistance with their daily lives. This is a cost-effective option that gives everyone much-needed peace of mind. Amada works with doctors and families in getting the right caregiver at the right time,” said Tice.

For families struggling though the first stages of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Tice offers the following tips for ensuring safety in the home:

• Install locks and alarms at entrances, especially if “wandering” is a concern.
• Install webcams, security systems and other monitoring systems that can be operated by loved ones via a smartphone app.
• Keep medication containers locked away.
• Remove tripping hazards from main living and sleeping areas.
• Have an easy way to reach family, caregivers, and emergency personnel.
• Keep the front of the home tidy to discourage would-be opportunists.
• Install new Virtual Caregiving Services.

“Alzheimer’s and dementia do require an extra level of care,” said Tice. “Whether it’s help with the groceries or getting dressed for the day, Amada has the right caregiver for your family. When it’s time to consider long-term care needs, Amada Senior Care can work with you to make an informed and healthy decision.”

Amada Senior Care North Houston provides non-medical in-home care that is highly personalized and cost-effective. For more information, call (832) 209-8844 or visit www.amadanorthhouston.com, www.amadacentralhouston.com or www.amadasugarland.com