If you ask family members who are taking care of a parent with Alzheimer’s what they wish others knew, the realities of being a family caregiver will become very clear. There is the adult son who tries to help his mom bathe and get dressed, but she throws things at him each step of the way.
There’s the woman who cannot stop her grandfather from flushing things down sinks and toilets to hide them from thieves, causing frustrating and expensive plumbing issues. There’s the mom who became so convinced a neighbor stole her newspaper that she attacked him and broke her arm in the process. On the ride to the hospital, the woman kept hitting her daughter.
Those are just a few of the many stories you’ll hear, and you probably have many of your own to share. One thing tends to run true when anger, paranoia, delusions, and confusion sets in. Providing all of the care your mom needs is exhausting, and you can start to feel trapped. It’s time to consider how Alzheimer’s care can truly help you.
Around Half of Family Caregivers Provide Care to a Parent With Alzheimer’s
In the AARP’s “Caregiving in the U.S. 2020” study, almost 50% of adults aged 75 or older had memory problems that required them to have a caregiver. Of those family caregivers helping a parent, 20% report their health as being fair or poor.
The stress of being a family caregiver can be overwhelming and lead to anxiety and depression. This is especially true when a family caregiver doesn’t feel that they have a choice. Self-care is essential to maintaining your emotional, mental, and physical health. If you’re feeling trapped, you’re going to struggle with self-care.
Take Time For Self-Care
Self-care is so important when it comes to being the best caregiver to a parent with Alzheimer’s. If you’re burned out and overwhelmed, it will impact the quality of care you offer. Make sure you take care of yourself to take the best care of your mom.
That means knowing your limits. It’s okay to hire professionals in Alzheimer’s care and have them do the proverbial heavy lifting while you focus on spending time with your mom doing the things you both enjoy. She loves muffins, so you could bake for her while her caregiver helps her get showered and dressed.
If you need a day off to be with friends, other family members, or by yourself, make sure you take that day off. Alzheimer’s care aides can spend the day with your mom while you have a day off.
How do you arrange Alzheimer’s care? Make a call or fill out the online form to get more information. You’ll learn more about prices, services, and how to get started. From there, you can decide the best days and times for paid caregivers to come and help out.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Alzheimer’s Care in Tolleson, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Blessings for Seniors Companion Care at (623) 594-0819.
Blessings for Seniors makes it possible for older adults to enjoy the comforts of their own home for as long as possible. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as; Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans’ Home Care program.
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