We know that caring for an aging loved one can be a difficult and lonely road. That road can be even more difficult if the person suffers from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Each day can be a struggle. It brings unexpected challenges for families and caregivers. And it can bring frustrations and confusion for the one suffering from the symptoms.
Are you familiar with Alzheimers.gov? They’re the leading resource for information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. They recently released tips for caregivers and families of people with dementia. It includes new ways to address everyday home care and safety. Tips for changing your communication and behavior for those suffering from the disease. Even ways to take care of yourself in the process. We’ve put together the advice we found most important. Not only for our own Care Companions at Daughter for Hire, but for those of you providing care on your own. Knowledge is power! Have each other’s back and share these resources with other caregivers. Together, we can make the world of dementia caregiving feel a little less lonely.
Routine. Routine. Routine.
Humans are creatures of habit who are prone to the same routine, particularly as we get older. Neglecting or all-out forgetting routine can be common for those suffering from dementia. This can be detrimental to their mental well-being and emotional state. It’s important to try and help your suffering loved one follow the same patterns and routines each day. Something as simple as bathing and dressing. Taking morning and afternoon medications. Eating meals at the same time each day. Responsible eating and maintaining that routine is important. Consider setting reminders for upcoming appointments or important events they have. Share a daily checklist with them if they feel comfortable. At the very least, keep that checklist for yourself to track their routine. It’ll make it easier for you to ensure they’re taking care of themselves throughout the course of the day or week.
Encourage independence as much as possible.
Not only do those suffering from Alzheimer’s or its related illnesses tend to forget daily tasks. They also may begin to forget how to perform said tasks to begin with. That’s why it’s important to help them maintain as much of their independence as possible. What can you incorporate into their daily life to make things easier? Consider shoes without laces. Clothing choices that aren’t complicated by buttons or snaps. Shoehorns or grabber tools. Shower stools and safety rails. Items that can help them complete daily tasks on their own. And the more your loved one feels like they’re able to complete these tasks on without your help? The less agitated they may be and less likely to aggravate their disease and its symptoms.
Try to stay as active as possible.
Finding ways to stay active can prove to be difficult when your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s. Consider different ways you can keep your senior active as their disease progresses. Simple household chores. Even taking a walk every day can be crucial to not only their routine but their health. People with dementia may lack interest or initiative. This makes your role as caregiver even more crucial. Set realistic goals or small challenges and try to do them with your senior. See what works and what doesn’t. Give them the option to choose an activity they may like. And meet them on their level. Don’t push an activity or exercise they challenge or find challenging.
Stop, think, and act with respect.
This one is crucial. It can be easy to become frustrated with a loved one who’s becoming forgetful. Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or in-home provider. It’s important to pause and remember that the behavior they’re exhibiting is not directed toward you. It is not with malice or intention. These diseases can be frustrating for all parties involved. Imagine it is even more frustrating for those suffering from the effects. They’re struggling. They might be feeling fearful or angry. Speak calm. Don’t contradict. Listen to them. Try and show that you understand, even if you don’t. You might be having a hard time, but they are suffering – don’t add to it. Be respectful.
Take time for yourself.
Taking time for yourself while taking care for an aging loved one can feel hard to come by. When they’re also suffering from Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia? The thought of self-care seems near impossible. Daughter for Hire can help you find relief through the respite care services we provide. Short-term care from one of our “Daughters” or “Sons” can give you some much needed relief and the time you need to take care of you. Are you not interested in respite services or is it not workable for your family or your budget? There are several other ways to take time for you. Join a caregiver’s support group online or in your community. Meeting others going through the same as you can help ease the experience. Or, if the toll you’re experiencing is too great, consider talking with a professional. They can help you to cope with any undue stress and anxiety. When you take time to care for yourself? The better care you’ll provide to those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia-related illness.
Want to review the complete list of tips for caregivers and families of people with dementia? Visit https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/tips-caregivers.
Interested in learning more about Daughter for Hire? Click here to select your location and talk with one of our representatives. You’ll learn how we can help you loved ones remain in place in the comfort of their own home. Our offices are open for scheduling, questions about our service, our care companions. We ‘ll provide information on how we can help you and your family.