Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between respite care and regular home care?
Respite care provides temporary relief for family caregivers who need a break, while regular home care is ongoing daily support. It allows primary caregivers to rest, travel, or handle personal matters knowing their loved one is safely cared for. At Thy Neighbor, we offer flexible respite scheduling to meet family needs in eastern Montana.How does companion care help someone with Alzheimer's at home?
Companion care provides consistent presence, familiar routines, and gentle redirection to reduce confusion and anxiety in Alzheimer's patients. Caregivers engage clients with memory-friendly activities and ensure safety throughout the day. At Thy Neighbor, our caregivers are trained to support cognitive health while honoring each senior's dignity.What activities of daily living can a caregiver assist with?
Caregivers help with bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, mobility support, and walking assistance. These essential activities ensure seniors maintain hygiene, safety, and comfort at home. At Thy Neighbor, we tailor personal care to each individual's needs and preferences.Can caregivers provide medication reminders without administering them?
Yes, caregivers can remind seniors when it's time to take their medication and observe them doing so safely. They cannot legally administer medication unless specially licensed. At Thy Neighbor, we include wellness checks and medication reminders as part of our daily support services.Why is respite care important for family caregivers?
Respite care prevents caregiver burnout by offering scheduled breaks, which improves both caregiver health and quality of care for the senior. Even short periods of relief help families sustain long-term caregiving. At Thy Neighbor, we understand the challenges rural Montana families face and offer compassionate temporary support.What does a hospital escort service include for seniors?
A hospital escort accompanies seniors to appointments, advocates for their needs, helps navigate healthcare decisions, and provides emotional support during medical visits. This service is especially helpful for seniors without nearby family. At Thy Neighbor, founder Martha Nugent's background as a Nurse Practitioner strengthens our patient advocacy.How can a caregiver help seniors understand Medicare benefits?
Caregivers with advocacy training can explain Medicare options, assist with enrollment questions, and help seniors navigate coverage details. This empowers elderly individuals to make informed healthcare decisions. At Thy Neighbor, we advocate for elderly rights and provide Medicare guidance as part of our Senior Corner services.Is 24/7 home care available in rural Montana communities?
Yes, some home care providers offer around-the-clock care in rural areas where family support may be limited. Continuous care ensures safety, companionship, and immediate assistance at all hours. At Thy Neighbor, we provide 24/7 care throughout Sidney and surrounding eastern Montana towns.What's included in light housekeeping for elderly clients?
Light housekeeping includes tidying living spaces, dusting, vacuuming, laundry, and organizing to maintain a safe and clean home environment. It does not involve heavy cleaning or deep scrubbing. At Thy Neighbor, we help seniors stay comfortable and reduce fall risks through regular home upkeep.How does meal preparation support senior nutrition at home?
Caregivers plan and prepare balanced meals tailored to dietary needs, health conditions, and personal preferences. Proper nutrition improves energy, immunity, and overall well-being in elderly clients. At Thy Neighbor, we focus on healthy, enjoyable meals that honor each senior's tastes and medical requirements.What's the biggest mistake families make when caring for dementia patients?
Many families try to correct or argue with dementia patients instead of validating their feelings and redirecting gently. This increases agitation and stress for everyone involved. At Thy Neighbor, our dementia companion care uses patience and empathy to create calm, supportive interactions.Can caregivers assist with minor home repairs for senior safety?
Yes, some home care services include handyman support for tasks like installing grab bars, fixing loose railings, or changing light bulbs to prevent falls. These small fixes significantly improve safety for aging-in-place seniors. At Thy Neighbor, we offer home safety assistance alongside our personal care services in eastern Montana.