5 tips for Alzheimer’s disease caregivers

Caregivers are crucial contributors to the health and wellness of the senior population. These individuals provide care and assistance to seniors who reside in independent living, memory care and assisted living communities. For Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, it’s especially important to appreciate caregivers of seniors with memory loss. Here are some important notes for these medical professionals:

Seek support

You are not alone and you should never feel like there is no one to talk to about your daily triumphs and struggles while caregiving. Even if you are the sole individual caring for a senior, you are on a team. That person’s doctors, family and friends all appreciate what you do and work together to make sure your loved one is healthy and happy. If you are ever feeling overwhelmed about caregiving, don’t hesitate to join a caregivers’ or Alzheimer’s support group. These online or in-person gatherings offer people to talk to and compare notes. You can learn tips and commiserate with others who are in similar situations. If you have concerns about your loved one’s medical wellbeing, talk to his or her doctor. These professionals may help you learn ways to assist them with his or her memory loss. You might also want to read these Tips for caregivers to manage Alzheimer’s behavior.

Actively relieve stress

While it’s tempting to go home after a long day to watch a movie and enjoy comfort food, these habits aren’t the best stress relievers. Yes, a flick and some treats can be great, but there are other ways to relax and reduce stress. Caregivers must be mindful of their personal health while still taking care of others. This means actively seeking opportunities to relieve stress. Consider getting a monthly massage, spending a weekend away or attending a fitness class. From taking 10 minutes each morning to meditate and enjoy your coffee solo to spending an entire day by yourself, it’s necessary to prioritize your needs.

Evolve with the senior

As you care for someone, his or her cognitive functioning is likely to decrease. This means the person will need more care and have different requirements from you. Caregivers must be flexible and able to adapt to the changing demands of a senior’s mental status. Using simple instructions and writing things down are great ways to assist a senior who is increasingly losing his or her memory.

Know when you need assistance

If you are caring for a senior with dementia or Alzheimer’s, it’s important to know when you may need outside help. At a certain point you may realize that you cannot provide enough help for your loved one any longer. Preventing wandering, reducing confusion and promoting the best well-being possible might require the person moving to a memory care community. Talk with your family and other professionals if you feel this is a good move for him or her. They’ll appreciate your insight since you spend so much time with the person. And, they may realize that you reaching out for help is a valid reason to look into senior living communities.