Abstract

Background
Dementia, a neurodegenerative condition that impairs memory, cognition, and daily functioning, presents significant caregiving challenges, particularly in resource-limited settings like Zimbabwe. With dementia cases rising rapidly among the elderly, family-centered care remains the norm. However, the increasing demands of caregiving often prompt families to seek professional support to manage the complexities of care.
Objectives
This case study examines the impact of professional caregiving services on the quality of life of Emmaculate Muganhiri, a 60-year-old dementia patient in Zimbabwe, and the relief provided to her family through engagement with Happy Homes Care Services.
Case Description
Emmaculate Muganhiri, a widow and mother of three adult children, lives with her daughter, who became her primary caregiver as her dementia progressed. Over time, the demands of caregiving, including managing her mother’s medication, emotional changes, and daily activities, became overwhelming. Seeking support, the family enlisted the services of Happy Homes Care Services, a professional team specializing in dementia care.
The caregiving team tailored their services to Mrs. Muganhiri’s needs, providing:
Assistance with personal care and daily living activities.
Medication management to ensure adherence and avoid complications.
Cognitive engagement activities designed to maintain routines and stimulate mental function.
In addition to patient care, the team supported the family by offering education on dementia and emotional guidance to better equip them to manage caregiving challenges.
Results
The introduction of professional care brought noticeable improvements to Mrs. Muganhiri’s quality of life. Her daily routine became more consistent, behavioral disturbances like agitation reduced significantly, and her emotional well-being improved, as evidenced by increased engagement in cognitive activities.
For the family, particularly her daughter, the relief was substantial. Professional support reduced the primary caregiver’s stress and allowed her to focus on fostering positive interactions with her mother. The overall family dynamic improved as the caregiving burden was shared, enhancing their ability to provide emotional support without being overwhelmed by day-to-day tasks.
Conclusion
This case illustrates the value of professional caregiving support in improving the quality of life for dementia patients and reducing the stress on family caregivers. The findings underscore the urgent need for accessible and affordable dementia care services in Zimbabwe to meet the rising demand. Professional support not only enhances the well-being of patients like Mrs. Muganhiri but also strengthens the caregiving capacity of families, ensuring a more sustainable approach to managing dementia in resource-limited settings.