A progressive and debilitating disease, Alzheimer’s is one of the most tragic illnesses to befall a loved one. If you have made the decision to care for an individual who suffers from this or any other dementia, consider the following:
Practice Sympathy
While you may not be able to put yourself in your loved one’s shoes, be patient with his/her struggle and remind yourself that the person you love is still somewhere inside. Research the disease and its effects in order to provide informed, and affectionate, care.
Be Pragmatic
While there will be good days, Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that will continue to degrade your loved one’s cognitive health. Embrace happy moments when they come, and engage your loved one in mental exercises that will strengthen and prolong his/her wellbeing.
Expect Change
Research the spectrum of dementia-related diseases to better understand the likely personality changes that your loved will experience. Above all else, remember that you are caring for the person you love, not for the disease that has overpowered him/her.
Seek Support
You are not alone in this struggle. Join a local support group, and seek the advice and guidance of friends or family who have faced this same trauma. At the end of the day, you will be incapable of providing care for another if you do not first care for yourself.
Ultimately, Alzheimer’s is a debilitating and horrifying disease that too often leaves caregivers struggling under the weight of compassion fatigue. To protect both your and your loved one’s health, consider enrolling him/her in an adult day care program, where trained and professional staff will design a unique treatment plan specifically for your each member’s needs. Rest, relax, and enjoy a vibrant quality of life with the remainder of days that shared care allows.
To learn more about our extensive range of integrated treatments, contact Middlesex County’s premier Alzheimer’s support team at South Amboy Adult Daycare. We look forward to showing you and your family the best of the best in New Jersey dementia care.
