Many families often feel overwhelmed and devastated when a loved one receives an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis. Families wonder what lies ahead for their loved one, and what challenges they may have to face. However, once the initial shock has worn off, it is important to take action.
As an experienced provider of Alzheimer’s care and live-in care in Irvine, California, we offer the following tips to help you, your family, and your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Educate Yourself about Alzheimer’s Disease
Do your research and educate yourself about this disease. Talk to your loved one’s physician or consult a specialist for more detailed information. Also, consider reaching out to organizations, such as the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and Alzheimer’s Association for more information about the disease, caregiving resources, and treatment options. Educating yourself about Alzheimer’s disease may help alleviate feelings of helplessness and fear.
- Consider the help of a Neurologist or Geriatric Physician
If your loved one’s primary care physician does not have experience in treating Alzheimer’s disease, consider adding a geriatric physician or neurologist to their senior care team. Ask the physician about any questions you may have about Alzheimer’s disease. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, ask about treatments that might work to address behavior problems and alleviate symptoms.
- Discuss the Diagnosis
Prepare your family and friends. Talk to them about your loved one’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Share any information and educational materials that you have. By doing this, you can help them better understand your loved one’s diagnosis and help them prepare for the progression of the disease.
However, while preparing yourself, your family, and your friends for what lies ahead is important, you should also talk to the person who has been recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Having this discussion can be difficult, but it is highly important. Discuss their options and preferences. Do they want to continue living at home for as long as possible? Will they consider moving to a care facility if their care cannot be maintained at home? Do they have the finances to pay for their care?
- Caregiver Respite
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is not easy. It can be physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, allow yourself to take a break. As a top provider of in-home care in Irvine, California, we offer respite care services for family caregivers needing a break from their caregiving duties. We also specialize in Alzheimer’s/dementia care. When you partner with us for your loved one’s in-home Alzheimer’s care needs, you can take a break with the peace of mind knowing that they will be well taken care of by compassionate professionals.
The Takeaway
An Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be scary, not just for the patient, but for their loved ones as well. To help you navigate the difficult times ahead, make sure to consider the above tips.