September was World Alzheimer’s Month, but families know caring for a loved one with the disease continues regardless of the month. Dementia is not a short-term challenge; it’s a progressive condition that changes memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form, accounts for 60–80% of all dementia cases. Close to 7 million Americans aged 65 or older are living with Alzheimer’s today, and the number is expected to nearly double by 2050.
Behind these statistics are families who shoulder the daily responsibilities of care. Almost 12 million Americans provide unpaid care for loved ones with dementia, providing an average of 31 hours of care per week. While caregiving can be meaningful, it is also physically and emotionally taxing. Caregivers of people with dementia report higher rates of stress, depression, and declining health compared to other caregivers.
That’s why licensed home care services – both non-medical and medical – are so important. They not only support individuals with Alzheimer’s but also help families find relief, balance, and peace of mind. Some key ways home care can help are:
- Personal care assistance (non-medical). Trained aides help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, grooming, and meals. This ensures safety and dignity for the person with dementia, while relieving family members of physical strain.
- Companionship and engagement (non-medical). Togetherness reduces isolation and promotes social interaction, which can help slow decline and ease behavioral symptoms. For families, this means reassurance that their loved one isn’t isolated and has meaningful daily interaction.
- Medication management (medical). Nurses and home health professionals can ensure medications are taken correctly and on schedule. This prevents complications, reduces hospital visits, and lifts a huge burden from family caregivers worried about making mistakes.
- Skilled nursing care (medical). Licensed nurses provide monitoring, wound care, chronic disease management, and overall health assessments. This helps the individual remain at home longer with professional oversight, while families feel supported in managing complex health needs.
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy (medical). Therapists can support mobility, improve communication, and support daily function. These therapies can enhance quality of life for the person with dementia and give families strategies to make the home environment safer.
Resources for caregivers
Families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s don’t have to do it alone. Here are free resources that can help:
- Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 Helpline (1-800-272-3900), support groups, and what to expect over time.
- Family Caregiver Alliance has information, support, and resources related to caregiving in addition to services by state.
- National Institute on Aging Alzheimer’s and dementia webpage provides research-based information, tips, and more resources.
Alzheimer’s and dementia don’t stop because the awareness month is over. And neither does the compassionate care family members provide. For trusted support and vital relief, licensed home care services can help families throughout the journey – ensuring dignity, safety, and hope along the way.
