Dementia Care Adelaide

Dementia is not a single disease, but a group of cognitive disorders that cause a decline in memory, thinking, and other mental abilities. This condition is severe enough to interfere with daily life. The symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the specific type and stage of the condition, but common symptoms include:

• Having trouble remembering things, like recent events
• Having a hard time talking or finding the right words
• Struggling to make decisions and understand things you used to
• Getting confused about where you are or what day it is
• Finding it tough to focus on everyday tasks
• Struggling to do everyday things like cooking or getting dressed
• Noticeable changes in your mood or behaviour, like becoming more irritable or sad
• Having trouble with moving and doing physical activities
• Not seeing things correctly or getting confused about what you see
• Not wanting to be around other people or losing interest in things you used to enjoy

Are you looking for local dementia home care in Adelaide? Home Caring provides specialised dementia support in the comfort of your own home. To find out more about dementia support services in Adelaide, please get in touch with our customer care team.

If you are concerned that your loved one might have dementia, it can be difficult to know what to do. Many conditions can have similar symptoms to dementia, so it’s important not to make assumptions. Seeing a doctor is a good place to start, as they can offer a preliminary diagnosis, and if needed, refer your loved one to a geriatrician or neurologist, and other support networks that may be helpful. Here’s some things you can do to help.

• Chat to your loved one about any difficulties they may be experiencing. With empathy and care, express your concerns and let them know that you are there to support them. They may be unaware of their symptoms or in denial, so be patient and understanding.
• Encourage them to book a check-up with their doctor – if your loved one is resistant to getting their symptoms checked out, one way you can overcome this is to find a physical reason to visit the doctor, such as getting a check-up for a physical symptom they are experiencing. You can then use that opportunity to discuss any other challenges they’re experiencing.
• Document their experience – Pay attention to your loved one’s behaviour, memory problems, and changes in cognitive function. Note down specific examples of when and how their behaviour or memory has been affected. This will be valuable when discussing the issue with healthcare professionals.
• Provide assurance and support – this can be a difficult time for your loved one. Having a calm, encouraging attitude can help them cope with their anxieties and fears.

Do you need local quality dementia support in Adelaide? Home Caring helps people with dementia live happy, healthy lives in their own home. To learn more about our specialist dementia care program, please get in touch with our customer service team.

In Australia, people who have been diagnosed with dementia can receive government funding for home care services through several government programs. The main program that provides funding for home care services, including dementia care for seniors, is the Home Care Packages program. Recipients can access government-subsidised packages designed to provide care and support services in their own homes. These packages are assessed based on an individual's care needs.

To access a Home Care Package, you will need to undergo an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) in Victoria. They will determine your eligibility and assess your care needs.

Once you have been approved for a Home Care Package, you can choose a provider who best meets your needs. Then you and your chosen service provider will work together to develop a personalised care plan that addresses your specific needs. Home Care Packages can cover a wide range of services, including personal care, nursing care, assistance with daily living tasks, respite care, and specialised dementia support.

The government provides funding for a portion of the approved care services, and you may be asked to contribute to the cost based on your income and financial situation. The level of funding (e.g., Level 1, 2, 3, or 4) is determined based on your assessed care needs. You can change your funding level over time, if your needs change.

Are you looking for a dementia carer in Adelaide? Home Caring provides high standards of care for people with dementia, to enable quality of life. To learn more about our Home Care Packages, please get in touch with our customer service team.

To be eligible for government-funded Home Care Package, you must be an older person who is 65 or older (50 years and older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people). If you not yet 65 and living with younger onset dementia, you may be eligible for support through the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme).

You can begin the process by visiting the My Aged Care website (or calling 1800 200 422) and applying for an ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) assessment. The online application form asks you a few questions about your situation, and how you are coping with daily life. You’ll also need your Medicare card handy, to provide some details for your application. You can also apply for an ACAT assessment on behalf of your loved one, if needed.

If your application is accepted, an ACAT assessor will give you a call to arrange a good time to visit you in your home. When they visit, they’ll have a chat to you about:

• How you’re going with your health, and any things you are struggling with
• Your medical history and any medications you might be taking
• Your ability to perform daily tasks independently and where you might need assistance
• How much support you have from your family or friends
• How safe you feel living in your home, and whether you need any modifications
• Potential medical services or nursing care you might require
• Your emotional wellbeing and your mental health
• Your cultural and language preferences, if appropriate
• How you’d like to be supported as you age, and the type of care you're interested in

After the assessment, your assessor will determine if you are eligible for government-funded aged care, and what level of support is appropriate for your needs. If you are approved for a Home Care Package or other type of funding, you’ll be informed by mail. Keep in mind that there may be waiting lists for Home Care Packages, so it's advisable to apply as early as you can. You can use the waiting period to look at different aged care providers, and decide which one is right for your needs. Once your Home Care Package has approved, you can meet with them and start working together to deliver your care plan.

Are you looking for dementia-specific care in your local community? Home Caring provides quality Home Care Packages from local carers and registered nurses, so you can get on with enjoying life. To find out more about dementia care at home in Adelaide, please get in touch with our customer care team. We’re happy to help.

Home care can help someone living with dementia with everyday tasks, so they can stay at home for longer, and enjoy quality of life. Here are some ways a home carer can support someone living with dementia.

• Establish a routine – a carer can help your loved one maintain a daily routine, which helps reduce and anxiety and confusion
• Provide companionship, emotional support, and help problem solve challenges
• Help with tasks like bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting as needed
• Ensure medications are taken correctly and on time
• Plan and prepare balanced meals, monitor your loved one’s dietary needs, and make sure they are drinking enough fluids
• Ensure the home environment is safe by removing hazards
• Provide activities that engage their mind and senses, such as puzzles, music, art, or reminiscence activities
• Encourage gentle physical activity like short walks
• Provide respite care so family members can take breaks and reduce the risk of burnout

Do you require in home dementia care in Adelaide? Home provides tailored Home Care Packages to support people living with dementia. To find out more about our dementia care services, please get in touch with our friendly customer care team.

Yes, you can access respite care services through a Home Care Package. This provides temporary relief for primary carers, allowing them to take a break while someone else takes over the care responsibilities for their loved one.

To discuss adding respite care to your loved one's care plan, start by scheduling a meeting or conversation with your case manager, so you can talk to them about your loved one’s needs. During the discussion, ask about the available respite care options, such as in-home respite or temporary residential respite. Your case manager will assess your needs and work with you to incorporate respite care services that align with your loved one's care goals and preferences. They can also guide you through the process of accessing respite care in your loved one’s Home Care Package, so they receive the necessary support while you take a well-deserved break.

Looking for dementia care in Adelaide? Home Caring provides personalised dementia care support for people in the community. To find out more, please get in touch with our friendly customer support team.

Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging. It's crucial for carers to prioritise self-care to provide the best possible support to their loved one and maintain their well-being. Here are nine tips on how to get support and take care of yourself when caring for someone with dementia:

• Seek information – educate yourself about dementia and its progression, as understanding the condition can help you anticipate and manage challenges effectively.
• Build your support network – connect with family members, friends, and support groups for caregivers of individuals with dementia. Sharing experiences and advice can be invaluable.
• Access respite care – arrange for respite care to give yourself regular breaks. Respite care services can provide temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities, allowing you to recharge.
• Set realistic expectations – dementia is a progressive condition. Adjust your expectations and be patient with yourself and your loved one.
• Stay organised – maintain a schedule and use tools like calendars and reminders to keep track of appointments, medications, and daily routines.
• Don’t forget to look after yourself – dedicate time to self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with friends. Caring for yourself is essential for your mental and physical health.
• Get help if you need it – don't hesitate to seek professional guidance from therapists or counsellors to manage the emotional challenges that can arise from your caring role.
• Stay connected – maintain social connections outside of caregiving. Isolation can lead to burnout, so engage in social activities that bring you joy.
• Respect your limits – recognise when you need assistance or when it may be time to consider other care options, such as assisted living or memory care facilities. Your well-being matters too.

Are you looking for dementia care in Australia? Home Caring provides experienced dementia carer support in Adelaide, to provide quality support. To find out more, please get in touch.