Dementia can be one of the most debilitating neurological conditions that people can develop. Unfortunately, it is also one of the more misunderstood conditions, which can make it harder for people to effectively combat this condition themselves or to provide assistance to a loved one that is afflicted with it. Read on to learn about these three common myths about assisting dementia patients.
Myth: There Is No Point in Treating Them
It is a sad reality that there is simply not a cure for patients that suffer from dementia. However, this can lead to some individuals assuming that there is little need to treat this condition. Many health professionals still find that it's worth addressing dementia. There are several treatments that can help to slow the progression of this condition so that individuals will be able to maintain their quality of life for as long as possible. Without these steps, patients will often start to deteriorate fairly rapidly.
Myth: Dementia Patients Can Only Receive Care in Specialized Facilities
While it can be possible to help slow the progression of dementia, individuals may assume that these treatments can only be administered in a specialized care facility. In reality, in-home care is one of the more popular and effective options for patients that are suffering from dementia. Relocating to a specialized facility can be an extremely stressful experience for a dementia patient, which can indirectly worsen their symptoms. By receiving treatment in their own home, these patients will be able to avoid this stress and benefit from these treatments more. Additionally, being surrounded by familiar items and places can help these patients to remain grounded in reality, which can be extremely useful in their symptom management.
Myth: Insurance Won't Cover In-Home Dementia Care
Any type of care for major medical problems can be expensive. In-home care is often assumed to be too expensive for patients to be able to afford it. However, these services are often covered under health insurance policies. This is especially true if in-home care is recommended by the patient's primary care provider. While it may seem strange that this type of care would be covered, it is a reality that in-home care can be substantially more affordable than the expenses that can accumulate with a full-time hospital stay. Due to these realities, you should consult with your health insurance provider in order to determine whether or not you will be able to get coverage for this type of treatment.
For more information, contact local dementia care services.
In the words of the Beatles "we get by with a little help from our friends." When your friend is an older adult, you cannot always provide that help yourself. They might need skilled nursing care or around-the-clock supervision that you're just not equipped to offer. That's where nursing homes and assisted living facilities can come in handy. These businesses make sure your loved one gets the help they need, provided by experienced and kind employees. You can learn more about assisted living and nursing facilities in the articles offered here. We think that after you read and explore, you'll be more confident that this is the help your friend needs.