Hearing the word, ‘Alzheimer’s’ when associated with an aging parent or other loved one can be devastating. It could take days, weeks, and possibly even months for certain individuals to accept this type of diagnosis. However, when an aging senior is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it’s important to stay focused because what happens in the future may depend on the decisions and choices you and that senior make now.
Sometimes, though, it’s easy to feel stuck. It’s easy to get caught in a trap, feeling like you’re in quicksand and every move you make is only getting you deeper and deeper into a place you never wanted to be.
If that’s you right now, below are five steps you can start taking that will help you begin moving forward when somebody you care about has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or any other form of dementia.
Step #1: Learn more about the disease.
You may only have a tepid understanding of what Alzheimer’s is, what it does, and how it will affect that person in the future. There’s a lot more depth to this disease than what the average American understands or realizes.
This first step is about learning. It’s about finding out the signs and symptoms, how it affects the brain, and how it can alter behaviors, not just now but well into the future.
Step #2: Seek the best medical treatment available.
Although there is no cure at the moment for Alzheimer’s, there are wonderful treatment options that can help temper some of the symptoms. There are some strategies that can also slow down the progression of the disease, perhaps for a few weeks or several months.
For example, did you know that studies suggest mental stimulation — even after diagnosis — can help slow the progression of this disease (Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation)? Find an experienced medical professional who can help guide you and this senior along the journey ahead.
Step #3: Find local support (for you).
There are probably numerous support groups in the area for people just like you who have a parent, spouse, grandparent, or other loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Some will be just like you, starting the journey, while others will be seasoned veterans.
Connect with these support groups, be willing to ask questions, and most importantly, listen to what more experienced people have to say. It will help you down the road.
Step #4: Anticipate your loved one’s needs.
It’s not just about what they need at the moment, today, but what they will need in the future. The more you learn about the disease, the more you surround yourself with great support and sound medical advice, and the easier it becomes to anticipate the senior’s needs in the future.
Step #5: Find the right support (for your loved one).
There are many types of home care out there, so choose the one that’s going to be best for their future and their needs. A memory care assisted living facility is arguably the best elder care option for those who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
When you start looking now, you will be ready for when that senior is also ready to make that commitment for a better quality of life, a safer living environment, and exceptional, experienced support.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Care in Newtown, CT, please contact the caring staff at Elderly Caregivers LLC. today (203) 628-7438
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