Increased Medical Needs</H4> <P>Many medical conditions change or worsen over time. A family member who was once able to keep symptoms in check with medications and regular doctor appointments may find themselves needing more frequent care. Surgeries or injuries create obstacles that simply cannot be met at home. Increased frequency of medical appointments or emergency room visits often indicates that easier access to <A href="https://www.phcconline.org/facility-services/physician-services">physician services</A> or specialty providers like <A href="https://www.phcconline.org/facility-services/respiratory-care">respiratory care specialists</A> would be beneficial. In a long-term care facility, it is easier for providers to coordinate care and be more responsive to emergency conditions.</P> <H4>Poor Hygiene</H4> <P>There are many reasons that hygiene declines as people age. For some patients, it is simply hard to prioritize grooming and dressing when they do not have anywhere to go, but there may be more serious reasons. Individuals with dementia or other cognitive impairments may forget these crucial activities of daily living (ADLs) or lose track of time, preventing them from staying clean and leaving them vulnerable to infections or illness. A good long-term care facility ensures that hygiene needs are consistently met and that any physical barriers are addressed to minimize injuries.</P> <H4>Mental Decline</H4> <P>Memory loss is common in old age. While the slower and limited recall is not necessarily a health concern, it can be a safety issue. Patients with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia may become confused or forget where they are or how to work basic household equipment. They may leave appliances on causing a fire hazard or get lost on walks or while driving. Dementia may also result in frustration that causes anger or even aggression, so having experienced staff on hand to help improves emotional and physical wellbeing.</P> <H4>Lifestyle Concerns</H4> <P>Decreased mobility and cognition often result in an unsafe living environment. If you notice that mail is left outside for extended periods of time or there are consistently dishes in the sink or items on the floor, it might be time for an honest conversation with your loved one about their ability to care for themselves. Your senior may be experiencing pain or difficulty getting around and may miss crucial medical appointments. It may also be hard for them to <A href="https://www.phcconline.org/facility-services/activity-services">connect socially </A>with friends and family members.</P> <H4>Making The Move To a Long-Term Care Facility In Princeton, WV</H4> <P>If your loved one struggles with ADLs, <A href="https://www.phcconline.org/contact">contact Princeton Health Care Center</A> today to learn more about our facilities. Our compassionate staff is prepared and ready for medical emergencies and the realities of aging. Give your seniors the best quality of life possible right here in Princeton WV!
When Does Dementia Occur?</STRONG></P> <P>Ernest Hemingway penned a famous line in “The Sun Also Rises,” when describing how one goes bankrupt, which is “gradually, then all at once.” The onset of memory loss and dementia can also be classified in this way. There is no single age, gender, race, profession, geographic area, or any combination of such factors that will accurately predict the start of a mental decline or early Alzheimer’s symptoms. The only way to pinpoint a time when a conversation has become necessary is by observation of the individual in question. Early indicators that<A href="https://www.phcconline.org/blog/knowing-the-difference-between-aging-memory-loss-and-dementia"> memory issues are becoming, or may become, a concern</A> can include neglectful changes in self-care habits, increasing frequency of lost items, a build-up of mail outside the home, or simply moments where your loved one appears to “tune out” or appear absent for brief periods.</P> <P><STRONG>How to Broach the Topic</STRONG></P> <P>Before starting a conversation, prepare yourself that the interaction may not go as planned. It is normal for seniors to respond in myriad ways to such an approach, with everything from anger and resistance to calm acceptance. Ensure that you have a calm and familiar environment with no distractions and appropriate privacy. Use “I” statements instead of being accusatory. Do not be surprised if you are met with denials when pointing out specific issues you have noticed with your loved one. These<A href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms"> tips prepared by the Alzheimer’s Association</A> can help direct your conversation and contribute to reaching the level of understanding that will help your loved one see that they may need a higher level of care in daily life to remain safe.</P> <P><STRONG>Memory Issues Versus Dementia</STRONG></P> <P>Dementia is not a normal part of aging, but certain memory/cognition issues are common as the years advance. The former is a condition that will continue to devolve until it is unsafe for your loved one to continue living independently with any degree of safety, while the latter can often be managed with certain tweaks and changes to ingrained habits. Dementia is best managed by skilled providers<A href="https://www.phcconline.org/facility-services/long-term-care"> at a long-term care facility</A> that can provide a full complement of services to ensure the quality of life during later years. The conversation around increasing care needs for a loved one who appears to be suffering from the onset of dementia symptoms can be made easier by pointing out the need for <A href="https://www.phcconline.org/facility-services/social-services">social services,</A> <A href="https://www.phcconline.org/facility-services/physician-services">physician services,</A> and <A href="https://www.phcconline.org/facility-services/physical-therapy">activities</A> to improve daily life and outlook. Skilled nursing care allows for access to physical therapy occupational, and speech therapy, at a single location. Such availability of services and care is the reason why West Virginia residents have been entrusting their loved ones to Princeton Health Care Center since 1981.</P> <P><STRONG>Get Help For Dementia WV</STRONG></P> <P><A href="https://www.phcconline.org/contact">Reach out today for a consultation</A> and let our team assist you in helping your loved one make the transition to an appropriate and dignified level of care.
