By Ann Mancini
President, Peachtree Christian Health
DULUTH, Ga. | Gwinnett is home to nearly 95,000 people age 65 and older, many of whom are living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. These residents and their caregivers strive to maintain a quality of life challenged by ongoing health, financial, safety, and social issues. Caregivers are often overwhelmed with the responsibilities of caring for their loved ones day and night, which is emotionally and physically draining, putting themselves at greater health risk.
Mancini
Dementia is now the fourth leading cause of death in Gwinnett County according to the 2020-2021 Community Health Needs Assessment. A 2020 survey conducted by the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving revealed 83 percent of caregivers reported increased stress since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sadly, 42 percent noted a decline in the number of people and resources available to help them with caregiving duties. Isolation, diminished support, added responsibilities, trepidation about COVID-19 infection, and resource insecurity were top stressors.
Though overwhelmed, caregivers often resist seeking care options outside the home, because they feel they should be able to provide the care themselves and seeking outside support means failure. But that is simply not the case. It can actually be a much healthier option for all involved.
Keeping loved ones isolated at home can be a detriment to their health. Loneliness and seclusion increase the risk of mortality, negatively affect physical and mental health, contribute to cognitive decline and dementia, and make loved ones more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors that often lead to worsened health and need for long-term care.
Peachtree Christian Health (PCH) in Duluth offers hope for Gwinnettians needing relief from the pressures of caregiving. PCH provides an exceptional daytime, health-centered program for aging adults experiencing physical and/or cognitive decline that enables a better life balance for the family and delays more expensive care options. The average annual cost for adult day services at PCH is $17,250, versus $44,616 for “homemaker” home care or $45,760 for a home health aide. Assisted living averages $43,200, with nursing home care ranging from $80,300 to $91,250.
PCH’s specialized healthcare team develops individualized care plans centered around the unique health conditions, abilities, and interests of each participant. They are immersed in clinical and personal care, educational programs, physical activities that improve wellness and reduces falls, and meaningful friendships. Enriching horticulture, art, pet, culinary, and music, and therapies are plentiful. Convenient physical, speech, and occupational therapy services are also available onsite via PruittHealth to further boost health and well-being. Participants enjoy their independence and being in an environment that meets them where they are each day.
In turn, caregivers benefit greatly from being able to let go for a bit, breathe, and recharge, a respite. Knowing their loved one is in a safe, supervised environment doing the things they love gives caregivers peace of mind to continue to work, attend school, manage household duties, or focus on self-care. Some seize the opportunity to redirect attention to other family members, enjoy hobbies, or lean into their support networks.
PCH offers daily tours and free three-hour trials for families to test the waters, meet the staff, and experience the hope. Whether you need support now or see it coming, we invite you to start the conversation and explore this great care solution proven to help everyone live healthier and happier. PCH is located at 3430 Duluth Park Lane in Duluth. Its phone is (770) 624-2727.
- Have a comment? Send to: elliott@brack.net
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