For elderly people who can no longer function home alone, there are many options, from home health care to assisted living facilities to nursing homes. Talk to your physician regarding your concerns about your relative and ask for some referrals to community-based services or institutions, she said. In many cases, an elderly person who has become a little confused can still function at home with the help of home-delivered meals or with a homemaker service or home health aide. The more structured environment of a day care program can be an excellent choice for someone who can't keep track of the day and time but enjoys social interaction, Dr. Isakov said. Simple steps such as taping a picture of the person's face on the door so they can find their room, reminding them to use the bathroom and keeping calendars, clocks and mirrors around can make a difference, Dr. Isakov said.
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