Tips to Make Caregiving Easier:
When the person you are caring for has Alzheimer's Disease or a related dementia, the behavioral changes that can occur may make your job as a caregiver difficult. Here are some suggestions:***Have patience. Remember your loved one is not being intentionally difficult or uncooperative.
***Remember the person inside, even if the personality has changed.
***Watch for non-verbal clues to identify changes in their health condition, their personal needs or their feelings. For example, increased pacing may mean the individual needs to visit the bathroom. A sudden change in behavior may be indicative of an urinary tract infection.
***Make time for yourself. Share the responsibility with family members or outside help.
***Have your loved one attend an Adult Day Service program where they can socialize in a safe, structured environment, while you are at work, running errands or just having some down time.
***Find a physician you can partner with and who understands the dementia process.
***Join a support group.
Taking care of an individual with dementia isn't easy. Keeping an open mind and following these tips will help you navigate through the journey.
