As a caregiver to a loved one with Alzheimer's, you are a shining example of strength, resilience, and love. The role can bring comfort as well as immense challenges. Whether your loved one just received a diagnosis or has coped with dementia for years, you may feel overwhelmed struggling to balance the demands of not only caring for your loved one but also managing other commitments and finding ways to stay healthy and connected. Below, we've outlined some strategies that we believe can help you maintain balance while still providing the love and care your loved one needs.
The Caregiver's Role In Supporting Loved Ones With Dementia
As caregivers, we have the opportunity to provide invaluable support to our loved ones living with dementia. From managing their daily needs and routines to providing companionship and emotional support, caregivers play a critical role. While being a caregiver is rewarding, it has its share of challenges and stressors.
Some may need to manage changes in behavior, learn to understand a whole slew of medical terminology and medications, and provide reassurance and comfort to a loved one who is confused or agitated. Managing the health and safety of a loved one while also needing to juggle work and family life may also lead to isolation and burnout.
Coping Strategies To Maintain Balance
As much as the health and wellness of our loved ones should be a priority, so too should the mental well-being of any caregiver. To cope with the added stress and strain of caring for a loved one who has dementia, we recommend finding simple ways to create balance and peace. These recommendations are simple, but they can make a huge difference.
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Education And Resources
Educating yourself about dementia and learning about available resources can help you better accommodate your loved one and learn about best practices, treatments, and activities that may help. There's nothing more stressful than having to learn through experience in this kind of situation.
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Support Groups
Support groups can provide an outlet for caregivers to connect with others who are in the same situation. It can offer reassurance, advice, and validation. You may find support groups locally or online.
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Prioritize Self-Care
Taking time for yourself is essential for your well-being. Getting enough rest and relaxation, exercising, and eating nutritious meals can help maintain your physical and mental health. If you're burned out, you won't have any energy left to care for your loved one.
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Hire A Trained Caregiver, If Only Temporarily
There is no shame in seeking out the help of a professionally trained caregiver. For those who are juggling family and work, caregiving can add many hours and many additional errands to an already long list of to-dos. Even if it's for a few hours a week, hiring a trained in-home caregiver can help relieve some of the responsibilities in an effective way that ensures your loved one's quality of life stays on track.
Senior Helpers Offers A Helping Hand For Alzheimer's Patients And Their Families
If you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's, we see you, and we're here to help if you need it. At Senior Helpers of Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens Counties, we can offer the resources and support your loved one needs for enhanced Alzheimer's care. If you are a resident of Anderson, Easley, Seneca, Belton, Liberty, Pickens, and Central and are looking for in-home senior care, contact us today.