If you’re an Alzheimer’s caregiver, you may find yourself feeling frustrated from time to time. Your senior loved one’s behaviors may not make much sense to you. Your parent may try to argue with you, or you may feel like there’s not enough time to do things around the house. To help you overcome these problems, here are some important dos and don’ts to remember when it comes to Alzheimer’s care.
Do: Pay Attention to What Works
Trying many different techniques is a great way to find out what works when caring for a senior with Alzheimer’s. When you do find something that works, make a note of the technique you used because you’ll want to try that method again.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of in-home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
Do: Use Distraction
Seniors with Alzheimer’s often become combative. Your loved one may yell or cry and make you feel helpless. Instead of trying to approach your loved one about the behavior on a logical level, simply distract him or her. Many different things can work as distractions, including listening to music, starting a new activity, or doing something surprising.
Do: Plan Fun
Being an Alzheimer’s caregiver can easily become all about meeting your loved one’s basic needs, such as showering and eating. Make a schedule so you can set aside time each week for some fun. Your loved one may look forward to doing something different, and it’s a great way to avoid caregiver burnout.
If you need a break from caring for your loved one to avoid getting burned out, consider hiring a professional caregiver. When researching agencies that provide senior home care, Huntsville, AL, families are usually looking for flexible care plans, compassionate and highly trained caregivers, and 24/7 availability. Whether you need respite care to take a break from your caregiving duties or your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, you can rely on Home Care Assistance.
Don’t: Engage in Arguments
Aging adults with Alzheimer’s usually are no longer rational. Therefore, don’t try to explain things to your loved one in a logical way. Your parent won’t be able to understand, and you’ll only frustrate yourself. Instead, try diverting your loved one’s attention to a different activity.
Don’t: Take It Personally
While your loved one may yell or argue with you, don’t take it personally. Remember the disease makes it difficult to communicate properly. Your loved one isn’t really angry at you. Make sure to take breaks and ask for help so you can rest while your loved one is being taken care of.
For reliable Alzheimer’s care, Huntsville 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. If your loved one needs assistance with the challenges of aging, reach out to one of our knowledgeable, compassionate Care Managers today at (256) 716-9940.