Understanding Dementia & Memory Care at Home in Rhode Island

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is not a single disease — it's an umbrella term for a range of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases. Other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.

In Rhode Island, approximately 24,000 people are living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias — and that number is expected to rise.

The Three Stages

Early Stage

• Forgets recent events or names
• May repeat questions
• Difficulty with complex tasks (finances, planning)
• Can still live semi-independently with support

Middle Stage (Most Common for Home Care)

• Increased memory loss and confusion
• Needs help with daily personal care
• May wander or become agitated at night
• Personality and behavioral changes common

Late Stage

• Requires full-time care and assistance
• Limited communication ability
• Vulnerable to infections
• 24/7 supervision typically needed

Keeping Your Loved One Safe at Home

• Secure exits — door alarms prevent wandering
• Remove tripping hazards — rugs, cords, clutter
• Label everything — drawers, doors, appliances
• Establish routines — familiarity reduces agitation
• Medic Alert ID — essential for wandering risk
• Simplify choices — two options, not ten

What Professional Dementia Caregivers Do

In Home Wellcare's trained caregivers support dementia clients with:

• Consistent daily routines that reduce anxiety
• Safe personal care delivered with patience and dignity
• Engagement activities appropriate for their stage
• Family communication and reporting
• Monitoring for health changes and fall risk

Rhode Island Memory Care Resources

• Alzheimer's Association RI Chapter — 1-800-272-3900
• RI Office of Healthy Aging — (401) 462-3000
• Memory & Aging Program at Butler Hospital — (401) 455-6200
• Brown University Alzheimer's Disease Research Center — brownmedicine.org

When Is It Time to Call for Help?

If your loved one is showing safety concerns — wandering, falls, inability to manage medications, or significant behavioral changes — it's time to consider professional home care support.

In Home Wellcare serves families throughout Rhode Island with specialized dementia and memory care. We match caregivers based on experience, patience, and fit. Call (401) 402-0076 for a free consultation.