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Personal alarms (or panic alarms) are an indispensable solution for maintaining the safety and independence of older adults that live at home alone. These compact and wearable devices allow you to contact emergency assistance at the touch of a button. This can be life-saving for the elderly with mobility or frailty concerns that are at risk for falls. Choosing the right personal alarm is an important decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s important to diligently research any personal alarm before purchasing to make sure it can meet the needs of you and your loved ones. You may also want to discuss your options with a doctor or licensed physical therapist. How do panic alarms work? Panic alarms, usually worn
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Respite care is a short-term type of care that gives family members and caregivers a welcome break from their caregiving duties while a professional carer looks after their loved ones. This allows family carers to rest, relax and catch up on personal affairs so they can get back to their loved ones feeling rested and recharged. It is far less disruptive and unsettling for your loved one to receive respite care in the comfort of their home rather than endure the upheaval of leaving their home even for a short time. This can be incredibly upsetting for someone in their later years, particularly if they are living with a condition like dementia where comfort and familiarity are so important. At
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The word ‘dementia’ is used to describe a set of symptoms that can include memory loss, difficulty problem-solving, reduced language skills, and behaviour changes. Dementia isn’t a disease; it’s an umbrella term for a set of symptoms caused by several different conditions, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common. Learn more about what dementia is and its most common causes in our helpful guide. What is dementia? Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning it slowly gets worse over time. Symptoms like memory loss, problems communicating or finding the right words and confusion gradually get worse until they substantially affect everyday life. The most common symptoms of dementia include: Memory loss Communication and language difficulties Problems with reasoning or problem-solving Trouble
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Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, has become an increasingly prevalent health concern worldwide. Named after the renowned British physician, Dr. James Parkinson, who first described the condition in 1817, Parkinson’s affects over 145,000 individuals in the UK. As researchers delve deeper into understanding this complex condition, the significance of early detection has emerged as a critical factor in managing its effects. Identifying the early signs and symptoms allows for timely intervention, which enables medical professionals to implement appropriate therapies that may slow down the disease’s progression and alleviate symptoms. Here we explore the early signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, shedding light on both the motor and non-motor indicators that often precede the more pronounced stages of the disease.
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End-of-life care is holistic support provided to people with life-limiting conditions and their loved ones. It is a form of palliative care offered to someone within the final weeks or months of their lives. The focus of end-of-life care is to provide bespoke support to the individual so that they can live in comfort and dignity in the time they have left. End-of-life care goes beyond merely addressing physical needs; it is a holistic approach that considers the emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of a person’s well-being. At Oxford Aunts, we understand that the end-of-life journey is a deeply personal and sensitive time for families. Our end-of-life care services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring
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Dementia affects people in different ways and experiencing strong emotions like agitation, confusion and aggression are common. Although these behaviours can be challenging and distressing for family members and caregivers, it’s important to know why these behaviours occur and what you can do to help. Here you’ll learn what to do when a person with dementia is agitated, including plenty of tips from our dementia care experts. Agitation in dementia Agitation is a common and challenging behavioural symptom experienced by people living with dementia. It encompasses a range of distressing behaviours, including verbal or physical aggression, restlessness, and increased confusion. The brain of a person living with dementia undergoes changes that can lead to difficulties in communication and emotional regulation
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Incorporating engaging activities into the daily lives of people with dementia can have a profound impact on their overall happiness and well-being. From creative pursuits and social interactions to virtual experiences online, these activities provide opportunities for cognitive stimulation, self-expression, and meaningful connection with others. Here are 32 activities for people with dementia designed to bring them joy and enhance their quality of life. Sensory stimulation activities Sensory boxes Creating a unique sensory box together is a great way to captivate the senses and encourage people with dementia to explore the world around them. Sensory or rummage boxes are boxes filled with a variety of textures, captivating scents, and intriguing objects. They can help people with dementia communicate or reminisce
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Agitation, a distressing symptom commonly experienced by people living with dementia, can cause stress for both the person affected and their caregivers. But with the right person-centred approach and calming strategies, it’s possible to create a soothing environment that promotes a sense of calm and well-being. Drawing inspiration from our experienced caregivers and experts in the field, we’ve compiled a list of 10 proven methods to address agitation in people living with dementia. Each approach is tailored to provide a compassionate and person-centred approach, recognising the unique needs and challenges faced by those living with dementia. 1. Stay calm It can be upsetting when a loved one is feeling agitated or stressed and we can’t seem to meet or understand
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Palliative care is a type of care that supports anyone living with a terminal illness or complex condition. It addresses the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the individual and their family and aims to alleviate symptoms such as pain, nausea, and fatigue. It can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, hospices and the individual’s own home. Palliative care is often confused with hospice care, which is a form of palliative care provided to people who have a life expectancy of six months or less. However, palliative care is not limited to end-of-life care and can be provided to individuals at any stage of their illness. Some people begin palliative care when they are first diagnosed, while others wait
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What is person-centred care? Person-centred care is an approach to healthcare that focuses on the needs and preferences of the individual receiving care. It recognizes that each person is unique, with their own set of values, beliefs, and experiences, and seeks to tailor care to meet their specific needs. Person-centred involves a collaborative approach between healthcare providers and the individual receiving care, as well as their family or caregivers where appropriate. It places a strong emphasis on communication, listening, and empathy, with the aim of building a strong, trusting relationship between the provider and the person receiving care. Person-centred care is a guiding principle of the NHS and it has made efforts to implement person-centred care into its policies and
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