A person’s risk of dementia increases with the natural aging process in the brain. Suppose a person has endured trauma or injury to their brain throughout their lifetime. In that case, they might be more likely to develop dementia since the brain has been affected negatively.
Statistics show that veterans have higher rates of dementia as they age. Studies are comparing higher rates of brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans to their heightened risk for dementia.
A recent study conducted at the United States Department of Veterans Affairs reviewed 180,000 male veterans aged 55 and older. The study found those diagnosed with PTSD were more than twice as likely to develop dementia syndromes and up to four times as likely to develop dementia due to a past head injury.
PTSD and brain/head injuries are more common among veterans, especially those who have seen active combat, so the scientific community is starting to connect the dots and understand when our senior veterans served their country, they might have endured experiences that now put them at a greater risk of developing dementia as they age.
That is not to say that every senior veteran will develop dementia. Still, the evidence is essential to consider as you care for your veteran at home and observe their daily progress or changes.
The Homecare Advantage
Having your senior veteran at home is a special gift, especially if they have dementia. Homecare for a veteran with dementia can provide the following:
Reliable Routines
A veteran with dementia often finds more peace in predictable daily routines in a safe space. Suppose a veteran with dementia knows what to expect. In that case, trusting the caregivers and feeling more empowered can be easier.
Engagement with Your Veteran
Homecare professionals know the importance of engaging veterans in conversation to keep their minds alert and active. Social skills and games become part of the daily routine to awaken your senior’s mind and spark. A visit from the homecare professional often creates something for your veteran to look forward to each day.
A Positive Atmosphere
Dealing with dementia can sometimes make the person want to stay in bed without motivation. Homecare helps your veteran enjoy the day by making healthful choices that nourish their mind and body. Eating well, exercising, and breathing fresh air become the cornerstone of a homecare professional’s daily visits to lift your veteran’s mood and energy.
Assistance with Activities
Veterans with dementia most often need assistance with activities related to daily living, such as bathing and getting dressed. Treating our veterans with the utmost respect is crucial, so our homecare professionals ensure we assist with patience, finding that balance between helping without letting the veteran feel helpless.
Familiarity and Family
Perhaps the most important advantage of homecare for your senior veteran with dementia is the ability to stay where life feels familiar, surrounded by the people who make them feel at home. Veterans with dementia can feel afraid of what the day will bring, but remaining at home and receiving care and love from homecare professionals and loved ones can help prove they are safe.
Housen Homecare professionals begin to feel like family as they spend quality time with your veteran with dementia. A healthcare plan is created based on the individual and how they change to keep challenging, engaging, encouraging, and surrounding them in a supportive, compassionate environment.
To learn more about how Housen Homecare can support you and your veteran, please get in touch with us and tell us about your senior veteran.
