Important Lessons for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

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Lessons to Learn About Caring for a Senior with Alzheimer in Tampa Bay, FL

Caring for a senior with Alzheimer’s is a journey that involves many learning experiences. You can use the following lessons shared by other caregivers to help you stay a few steps ahead. 

Make Time to Enjoy Bonding with Your Loved One

Often, life hits a hectic pace, and you may forget to take time out to enjoy the special moments. Make time in your daily schedule to set the laundry and housekeeping aside so you can spend a few minutes bonding with your loved one. Whether you sip on tea together or play a simple game, these are the moments you’ll cherish for years. 

Know When to Let Things Go

You naturally have to gently correct your loved one if he or she tries to take medicine at the wrong time. However, you may find it’s easier to avoid having an argument over whether your loved one’s spouse is still alive. While you shouldn’t lie, it may be better to let your loved one think what he or she wants rather than challenging him or her. 

Treat Your Loved One with Respect

When seniors are in the later stages of Alzheimer’s, they sometimes have moments of clarity that are intermingled with confusion. While you may not know if your loved one can respond to a question, it’s best to provide a chance to answer, since he or she may surprise you. If you notice other people trying to talk over your loved one’s head, such as a well-meaning but inexperienced friend, simply redirect the question back to your loved one. 

Treating your loved one with respect may encourage him or her to continue to remain independent. 

Seniors enjoy being respected and loved, especially when they’re managing health issues such as Alzheimer’s. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, an in-home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.

Remember that Even Superheroes Have Sidekicks

Family caregivers tend to go above and beyond the call of duty to make sure their loved ones are cared for properly. However, you should never try to be an Alzheimer’s caregiver alone. Taking care of your loved one could take an emotional and physical toll on your wellbeing, and you may anticipate things will get harder as time goes by. Make sure to pick out a sidekick or two you can rely on to jump in when things get stressful. With a professional caregiver or family member on duty, you can recharge while knowing your loved one is in competent hands. 

For reliable Alzheimer’s care, Clearwater families can turn to Home Care Assistance. We are a leading provider of professional memory care designed to help seniors maintain a higher quality of life. In addition to Alzheimer’s care, we also provide comprehensive dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care. From revolutionary care programs to compassionate and dedicated caregivers, we can meet all of your Alzheimer’s care needs.

Keep Your Sense of Humor

A shared laugh can go a long way toward breaking tension between you and your loved one. Try to incorporate humor into tasks your parent may not find enjoyable. For instance, you can blow a few soap bubbles during your loved one’s bath or shape his or her hair into a silly soapy style. Alternatively, you can serve lunch while wearing a funny hat. Turning mundane moments into fun adventures can help both you and your loved one find the joy that exists in every day you spend together. 

Seniors are at risk for many age-related challenges. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare Clearwater, FL, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. If you need professional care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (727) 330-7862.

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