Caring for someone with Huntington’s Disease (HD) can be challenging. As one of the country’s largest specialized care providers, ArchCare is the home of choice for people with HD and their families.
Families navigating this journey can focus on three key areas. First, understanding the disease’s progression is crucial, as it presents varying symptoms and needs at different stages. This knowledge will help you identify when to seek additional support and where to find it. Second, you will need to select a care facility. A dedicated care center can significantly enhance the quality of life for both your loved one and your family. Lastly, as you begin your care journey, consider facilities that specialize in neurodegenerative diseases, offering comprehensive physical, spiritual, and emotional support.
Huntington’s Disease and its Stages
There are three primary stages of Huntington’s Disease:
- Early Stage: Symptoms can go unnoticed for years, with minimal impact on daily living. The most noticeable symptoms are often strong emotional reactions, irritability, and challenges regulating emotions. Awareness of these signs can help you seek early support.
- Middle Stage: Noticeable changes become evident in daily life, including chorea (involuntary movements) and memory loss. At this stage, you may benefit from short-term care or rehabilitation facilities for Huntington’s Disease.
- Late Stage: Assistance with daily living is essential. This period focuses on comfort and supportive care, ensuring quality of life.
When to Consider Long-Term Care
Depending on where you are in your care journey, you may be considering long-term care or curious when it is time for more support. A primary physician can help identify pressing challenges that require additional care. Key signs include:
• Frequent falls or health concerns
• Emotional instability or behavioral changes
• Increased difficulty with personal care and hygiene
As symptoms increase in daily living, continuously communicate with your primary care provider to access the need for additional support.
Choosing the Right Care Facility
Follow your instinct when selecting a care facility for a complex challenge like Huntington’s Disease care. Transitioning your loved one to a new home can be difficult. We make every effort to make the transition as supportive as possible.
At ArchCare, we have two nationally recognized Centers for Neurodegenerative Disease: Terence Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center in Manhattan with views overlooking Central Park and Ferncliff Nursing Home in a historic, serene campus in Rhinebeck. Both facilities offer:
- Comfortable accommodations (private or semi-private rooms)
- Comprehensive rehabilitation services
- Engaging recreational programs (art, music, book clubs)
- On-site amenities (café, beauty salon, pastoral care)
Each Center for Neurodegenerative Disease offers specialized and coordinated care services to ensure your loved one is receiving the best quality of care.
Support for Caregivers
Caring for a loved one with Huntington’s Disease can be demanding. At ArchCare, we provide the emotional support you need, ensuring you feel as ease knowing your loved one is receiving the highest quality of life possible while living with Huntington’s.
Contact Us
To learn more about Huntington’s Disease care services at ArchCare or arrange a visit, please call 855-951-2273 (CARE) or fill out our contact us form.