Lessons for In Home Alzheimer’s Care
Learning that a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease can be devastating and overwhelming. Not only do you have to come to terms with the reality of the illness, but it’s also important to learn about Alzheimer’s care, so that you’re equipped to help support your loved one as they experience symptoms. If you’re preparing to become a home Alzheimer’s caregiver, the following information about caregiving in the early stages of the disease may help.
Supporting Independence
If you’re providing Alzheimer’s care for mom and dad, one of the best things that you can do is help support their independence, since the early stages of the disease allow sufferers to mostly care for themselves. Let your parent or loved one handle most regular care tasks, but be prepared to step in and remind them of important, concrete facts, like appointment dates and times, medication dosages, and names, and provide them with transportation. While you want to foster independence, always make sure you step in if you sense a safety risk. You want to ensure that your loved one never endangers him or herself, or any other person.
Learning and Education on Alzheimer’s
When you’re beginning the caring process for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, caretaking will be less intensive than later in the disease’s progression. So, take your time to learn about Alzheimer’s, its symptoms, its causes, and what you can do to help. By educating yourself now about how to be a caregiver, you can be ready as more symptoms begin to appear.
Grieving and Processing the Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
An Alzheimer’s diagnosis is scary for anyone — but it’s particularly scary if it’s for someone you love. If you’re preparing to provide home Alzheimer’s care in Atlanta or across the U.S., make sure you take some time to grieve the health of the person experiencing the disease, and allow yourself to feel sad. Embrace the emotions you have about the situation, as well as the emotions of your loved one. Accepting your emotions as they arise, and seeking help from a professional counselor, will help make the caring process easier in the long run.
Focus on a Life Well Lived
A person with Alzheimer’s in its early stages can still enjoy a full life. Help your loved one — and yourself — live a full, enjoyable life. Do physical activities together, eat healthy, delicious meals, create a schedule that works, and avoid situations that may be overwhelming. If you’re providing in home Alzheimer’s care in Atlanta or another big city, take advantage of opportunities to have fun and relax. These can help everyone involved stay as stress-free and healthy as possible for as long as possible.
Conclusion
When someone you love gets diagnosed with Alzheimer’s it can seem like an overwhelming and saddening prospect. However, educated yourself and learning the proper ways to provide in home Alzheimer’s care can help make a tough situation bright.
Angel Companions Senior Care delivers in home Alzheimer’s Care services to all 27 metro Atlanta counties including the cities of Smyrna, Cartersville, Buckhead, Johns Creek, Marietta & more. If you have any questions please use our contact page form or call us today at 770-579-5000!