They cause family members to be concerned about the ability of seniors to be left at home alone where they could wander off, lose track of time and location or forget important things like paying bills or personal hygiene.

According to findings of a recent study conducted by a psychologist at the University of Virginia, mental abilities decrease with age. Crystallized intelligence and vocabulary usage decline over time. Also notable in the study was the concept that seniors' recognition levels are higher with practice and repetition. Another study, one conducted by scientists at the University of California in San Francisco, found that seniors who participated in brain training activities with computer games were able to improve their short-term cognitive abilities.

In direct correlation with these scientific studies, it is often believed that seniors should engage in regular mental fitness exercises. This helps them to stay mentally active, be more independent and live a safer lifestyle. While these activities go above and beyond the traditional services provided by senior home health care services, they are available. Certain at-home health care companies provide nonmedical care for their clients that helps them to improve their mental capacities. They participate in activities such as playing cards and board games, reading books and magazines and attending plays, lecture series and musical concerts.

Those suffering from the effects of Alzheimer's, dementia and other mentally debilitating chronic conditions need extra supervision to ensure their safety and quality of life. Healthcare providers should have additional training to help them handle the special situations that arise with these patients. This advanced interaction focuses on enriching life by focusing on the spirit, mind, body and family of the individual. Those with specialized at-home senior care are less likely to be in danger and more likely to stay engaged in social and mental activities.

Some of the symptoms of senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease include loss of attention span, loss of vision or hearing, confusion as to where and when they are, and difficulty in identifying people and things that should be familiar. Some seniors may exhibit inappropriate behavior or poor judgment that is unusual for them. Others may become easily agitated or emotional charged. Difficulty with short-term memory and math problems are also common.