As our parents age, we often take on the role of caregiver, and the management of this can happen from afar. From a distance, we can take measures to help our parents remain safe, but the first step is to physically visit our parents to identify things that we can change.Â
When we notice changes in our loved one’s behavior and increased forgetfulness it can feel alarming and overwhelming, even if we feel we have prepared ourselves for this moment. What do I do now? Who can I turn to in my area?Â
It’s worrisome when our loved ones with dementia suddenly exhibit changes in behavior. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common ailments and conditions that occur with dementia, what behavior changes could come with them, as well as some caregiving tips on how to handle them.
Making the decision to move your loved one to memory care can be a very difficult choice but knowing how to identify the signs that 24-hour care is necessary can help you evaluate and make that critical determination. Â
Self-care is vital to your mental and physical well-being, and this includes finding a support system – a group of people that walk in similar caregiving shoes as you…people that share pain points as well as wins. You do not have to be on this caregiving journey alone. Support can help to prevent burnout!
What do you do when a dementia patient refuses care? The best starting place is to understand why.
As you prepare for your needed and welcome break during the holiday season, remember that you aren’t alone and respite care can be the way for you to take better care of yourself during any busy or stressful time.Â
Give yourself permission every single day to care for yourself as a caregiver.