"The caregiving needs for someone living with Alzheimer’s are extensive and increase over time — on average four to eight years following a diagnosis. Many family caregivers juggle competing priorities, becoming stretched thin and stressed. Most could use help. Here in Missouri, there are 316,000 family caregivers. During November – National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month – the Alzheimer’s Association recognizes and honors Alzheimer’s caregivers. We applaud these resilient men and women who do so much for those they love in their most difficult times. Caring for a loved one with memory loss can be rewarding and uplifting. It can also be emotionally, physically and financially draining. Caregivers need to take care of themselves..."
Posts tagged as “Caregiving”
"Caregivers who understand the disease process of dementia and how to approach the person as the disease progresses are better able to provide an environment that helps the person live as full a life as possible. Remember that everyday activities become more challenging and confusing to a person with Alzheimer’s. Here are some practical tips for caregivers.
When performing daily activities like bathing, it is best to maintain old routines and make bathing relaxing. Simplify the task by assisting as much as needed. Don’t expect participation — even if yesterday they were willing. Every day is different. Assure safety to avoid falls. The person may be more frightened of getting into a tub or shower. A safety assessment should be done regularly as the disease progresses. In addition, people with dementia do not tolerate the cold so make sure the bathroom is warm."
A staggering 15 million family members have stepped up to care for them – or 22% of all family caregivers nationwide.
Although their loved ones confront challenges to their independence as a result of the progressive disease, these family caregivers confront challenges of their own.
As part of the VOICE Dementia Care program, family caregivers received coaching that involved in-person sessions and ongoing consultations with a professional care team.
Family caregivers reported meaningful improvements in confidence, particularly related to self-care and coping, as they cared for those with dementia.
To provide broader community support to family caregivers, Seniorlink recently launched caregivernation as part of its second annual “Thank You Caregiver Nation” awareness initiative.