Alzheimer's Care
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting over 6 million Americans, research done by the Alzheimer's Association indicates that this number could double by 2050. At Visiting Angels, we know that caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's can be challenging, so we're here to help. That's why we offer compassionate care that feels like family. Whether your loved one is living in their own home or in an assisted living facility, our caregivers are there to provide the support they need. And, if you're waiting for an opening in a memory care facility, we can provide temporary care to bridge the gap.
Our goal at Visiting Angels is to help your loved one live comfortably and safely, surrounded by familiar faces and loving care.
Contact Us Online to Schedule a FREE In-Home Consultation.
Jump to: Home Care Services|FAQ|Free Consultation
Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that impacts memory, thinking, and daily life. It go through stages, each bringing unique challenges:
- Early Stage: Subtle changes like occasional forgetfulness, misplacing items, or struggling to find the right words.
- Middle Stage: Everyday tasks like cooking or paying bills become harder. Communication can be difficult, and behaviors like wandering or agitation may emerge.
- Late Stage: Severe memory loss and physical decline often require around-the-clock care.
Understanding these stages can help families plan ahead and provide the best support for their loved ones.
Specialized Training for Caregivers
At Visiting Angels, we know families face challenges when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. That’s why our caregivers are trained to provide specialized memory care. We use trusted resources from the Alzheimer’s Association and Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care, to give our team the best tools and techniques to:
- Communicate in ways that encourage connection and are understanding.
- Approach challenging behaviors with patience and respect.
- Create safe, comfortable environment that is tailored to each person's unique needs.
Our nursing team is dedicated to ongoing education and we stay current on Alzheimer’s care research and best practices to educated our caregivers and enhance our services.
Personalized Alzheimer's Care
We all know that Alzheimer's affects each person differently. That's why we tailor our care to each individual's unique needs. Here's some common ways we provide assistance:
- Companionship and Support: A friendly face helps reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety.
- Help with Daily Tasks: Caregivers can assist with personal cares such as dressing, bathing, toileting, etc. as well as providing transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders and much more.
- Safety: Caregivers are trained to prevent wandering and to keep the home environment is safe.
- Respite for Families: Home care gives family caregivers a much needed break while giving them peace of mind knowing their loved one is well-cared for.
Getting Started with Care from Visiting Angels
Alzheimer's can be stressful and overwhelming for families. At Visiting Angels, we will start with a free in-home consultation to talk about your loved one's needs and preferences and discuss how we can best assist. Our team will work closely with you to create an individualized care plan and find a good caregiver match. We're also here to offer support and guidance every step of the way should you have any questions or concerns.
If you're ready to take the first step towards home care, give us a call at 952-935-0789, or simply fill out our inquiry form.
Additional Alzheimer’s Resources
- Safety Checklists: Download the Visiting Angel's free Alzheimer’s Guide
- Local Support: Connect with Alzheimer’s support groups in the Chaska and Eden Prairie community as well as others in the southwest Minneapolis area. You can also the Alzheimer's support line at 800-272-3900 for 24-hour phone support.
- Caregiver Resources: Find more tips and care strategies from the Alzheimer’s Association and Teepa Snow.
For more answers to your questions, contact us at 952-935-0789 or submit our inquiry form.
Our Commitment to the Alzheimer's Community
We're passionate about helping families and individuals living with Alzheimer's, and we're always looking for ways to get involved. Visiting Angels participates in and sponsors the Twin Cities Walk to End Alzheimer’s. It's a great chance for our team to raise awareness and funds for research, and to show those affected by this disease that they're not alone. Plus, we have a lot of fun!
FAQs About Alzheimer’s Disease
What Is the Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term for a wide range of brain disorders that are characterized by memory loss. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia. According to estimates, Alzheimer’s cases account for somewhere between 60% to 80% of all cases of dementia.
Everyone with Alzheimer’s has dementia, but not everyone with dementia has Alzheimer’s. People living with vascular dementia, for instance, have symptoms similar to Alzheimer’s but the cause of their dementia is different.
What Are the Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease?
While scientists are still researching the exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers have identified a number of risk factors. The three biggest risk factors are:
- Advanced age: In most cases, symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease begin after age 65.
- Genetics: People with a family history of Alzheimer’s are at higher risk of developing the disease themselves.
- Heart health: Poor cardiovascular health increases one’s risk. Those with a history of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, stroke, or heart attack will be at higher risk.
Other risk factors include:
- Heavy smoking
- Heavy drinking
- High stress levels
- History of head trauma
- Sleeping problems
What Are the Care Options for My Loved One With Alzheimer’s?
As Alzheimer’s progresses, people living with the disease need high levels of in-home memory care to ensure their well-being and safety. Friends or family members may care for your loved one with early and mid-stage Alzheimer’s. As the disease reaches its later stages, professional support is often needed.
Moving your loved one into a senior living facility is an option. However, this can be a difficult experience, and it is often considered a last resort. Another option is to hire Alzheimer’s home care services, such as those offered by Visiting Angels. Our specialized home caregivers help people age in place with Alzheimer’s disease.
What If My Loved One With Alzheimer’s Can No Longer Live At Home?
Visiting Angels offers services in assisted living and other senior living facilities. Because staff members at these facilities tend to look after multiple people during their shift, families decide to hire a professional caregiver to supplement the facility’s services. As needs change, we can increase the duration or frequency of care for your loved one, day or night, up to 24/7 care.
Serving Chaska, Eden Prairie, Shakopee and Surrounding Areas
Visiting Angels CHASKA, MN
1107 Hazeltine Blvd #489Chaska, MN 55318
Phone: 952-935-0789
417017