Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
More than 9 million people in the US are living with some form of dementia. Alzheimer’s is one of the main forms of the disease, but there are many different varieties facing our population. Often times, it may be unclear exactly what type of dementia a patient has, but the commonality between them all, is that it’s related to a biological brain condition and some form of damage to the brain’s inner communication.
The signs and symptoms of dementia are different for every patient, but common indicators are as follows:
• Forgetfulness, especially short-term memory
• Change in personality
• Agitation/Frustration
• Difficulty with daily tasks
• Social withdraw
• Sundowning/Sleeplessness/Restlessness, especially in the evening
Not only is it extremely difficult for the patient suffering from dementia, but it’s just as challenging and upsetting for the caregiver and for loved ones that see the changes in the personality of their family member.
Patients with Dementia usually have the most difficulty with short-term memory, so while the caregiver may be asking about something that happened only moments ago, the patient may not remember, and that can be extremely upsetting.
On the other hand, many dementia patients have extraordinary long-term memory, so asking them about events and having them tell tales of when they were younger can be helpful and fulfilling to both the family and the patient.
Most types of dementia are progressive, so even with treatment and medication, the patients will continue to get worse with time. This is not only hard to accept, but this can be extremely challenging for the caregiver. Watching their loved one struggle with the disease, can make them feel completely helpless at times, because there is no way to get through to their loved one, or change the circumstances of the diseases development.
The emotional frustration can take a great toll on the caregiver. On the contrary, many of these same struggling caregivers take great pride and have an increased sense of worth and strength from being able to give their loved one what they need, such as taking over household chores, making meals, or bathing and dressing their loved one.
Along with all of the aforementioned details, caregivers need to take a break from time to time. That’s where skillfully trained medical professionals can help. They can provide respite for the caregiver, allowing them time for themselves. Knowing that their loved one is being well cared for by professionals that completely understand the disease and the correct steps to support them, caregivers can rest at ease and do something enjoyable for themselves, or just simply get away from the distressing illness for a while to decompress.
Senior Living Selections can offer the committed support that caregivers and patients need.
They understand the disease and its symptoms. They take every patient’s case personally and establish a unique plan that works best for the entire family, including the patient.
You Have Options:
INDEPENDENT LIVING
Active retirement living can be enjoyed at Senior Living Selections in Florida. Independent living is generally for seniors 55 years and over, who are able to live independently.
ASSISTED LIVING
Get the best assisted living in Florida. We provide safe and secure senior assisted living facilities in Florida to help your loved one live their life happily.
MEMORY CARE
We offer memory care services to seniors living with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Our facilities’ caring staff are trained on how to support individuals living with illness.
NURSING HOMES
We provide a range of nursing home options across Florida, including independent and assisted living retirement homes, memory care, and long-term care.
ANDRE SANTAMARIA, CDP
SENIOR CARE ADVISOR, OWNER
Andre Santamaria is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and has been dedicated to the senior healthcare field since 2012. He has worked in independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities. Andre has a passion for helping people find the resources they need so that seniors get the care they deserve.
Andre and his family moved to Florida in 2016 from their beloved state of Tennessee. The beach, warmer weather, and the pursuit of an active lifestyle attracted them to Florida. His wife, Melissa, enjoys walks on the beach, and their baby feels right at home with his love of the outdoors and water.
Andre and his team have visited, toured, and met with administrators at nearly all Sarasota and Manatee County assisted living facilities. He tracks state inspections and stays informed about any deficiencies of partnered assisted living communities. Through his connections, he can provide resources for all matters related to assisted living and countless other senior living options in the area.
Andre provides his comprehensive senior living search service at no cost to seniors or their families. He offers impartial and objective information about each facility, while his business arrangements allow for him to be compensated by whichever community is selected.
Andre has found a passion for helping seniors and their families find all resources and options in senior care. With his experience as a Senior Care Advisor in independent living, assisted living, and memory care, he is able to find the right fit for your loved one.
To find out more, please call 941-218-3813 or visit seniorlivingselections.com.
Senior Living
(941) 218-3813
www.SeniorLivingSelections.com
