The end stages of Alzheimer’s are exhausting physically and mentally. While you’ve offered your parent the very best care possible, there are some things that you’ll struggle to do. Have you considered the impact your mom or dad’s disease will have as the progression takes the turn to the final stages of the disease?
Your Parent No Longer Communicates
In the end stages of the disease, your mom or dad may no longer talk. You might not hear your parent talk more than a word or two in hours or never say a thing. It makes it hard to judge if anything is needed.
Mobility Changes
Your parent may not walk anymore. Your mom or dad may need a wheelchair for mobility. Care for bed sores is one of the issues you may face. If those sores become infected, you may not know what to do. Home health care nurses help with wound care.
Your Mom or Dad Won’t Eat
Eating is another issue people in the end stages of Alzheimer’s face. They won’t eat or can’t eat. Some have orders not to offer feeding tubes or IV fluids. If your mom or dad wants the IV fluids or a feeding tube, you need a nurse’s help to keep them clean, insert them, and ensure everything is going well.
Aggression Increases
Sometimes, people in the latter stages of Alzheimer’s become increasingly agitated and angry. They will lash out with fists. They may bite, slap, or pinch. If redirection doesn’t help, your parent may need to be on IV or injected medications that help ease the anger and anxiety.
The Body Is Slowing Down
Vital signs are another thing that needs to be monitored. Your parent may weaken. It’s essential to have some idea of how much time is left for planning. If you have a sister on the other side of the country, she may want to see your mom one more time. A nurse can report to you if your mom’s breathing is changing, her pulse is changing, and where her blood pressure is each day.
Hire Home Health Care to Help Your Family Through These and Other Changes
Home health care is an integral part of caring for a parent in the end stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Don’t try to do it all on your own. It’s emotionally and physically draining. Talk to your mom or dad’s doctor about what to expect.
Once you have an idea of what health care needs are coming up, call a home health care expert to make care arrangements. You’ll want the support, and your mom or dad will have all of the support that’s needed.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Home Health Care in Woodbridge, VA please contact the caring staff at Passion Home Health Solutions LLC today at. 703-462-9141
- What are the Most Common Speech Disorders in Adults? - October 25, 2023
- World Mental Health Day: The Importance of Support for Older Adults with Depression - October 9, 2023
- How Home Health Care Helps Seniors With Alzheimer’s - September 20, 2023
