There are more than 26 million people in the world who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and are suffering from some level of memory loss and confusion. While the people with the disease certainly are affected negatively, the caregivers also must deal with the stress of helping a parent who often doesn't even recognize them. People with this common form of dementia also can become quite angry and even aggressive toward caregivers.
The disease has several stages and when you begin to notice problems with memory and changes in personality, you probably will suggest that they visit the doctor and be screened for the disease. Of course, your parent could be quite resistant to this suggestion and it's hard to blame them. Alzheimer's is a very frightening prospect, and many people are angry when people suggest they see a doctor, but also very angry and depressed once they are diagnosed. Often, it is the caregivers and loved ones that bear the brunt of this anger.
It isn't easy, but keep in mind that their anger is absolutely not about you, but about fear and confusion. Imagine how you would feel if you lost your memory and were constantly confused and bewildered. Anxiety can be lessened to an extent by reducing the stimulus and stress surrounding the person with the disease. Make life as simple as possible with no responsibilities, and just meals and activities. Skip events where there will be too many people and too much noise, and while visiting with people is very important, limit the visits to just one or two people. Clean up the house and bedroom so that taking care of basic needs is as simple as possible.
Learn how to answer questions in a way that makes the person feel as though you are listening, but without making the situation more confusing. So if a parent asks where they are or who you are, respond by telling them that they are safe and then perhaps distract them by telling them that it is time for lunch or that you are fixing them a cup of tea. If they tell you they need to go to visit a relative that already is deceased, rather than arguing the point, simply ask them some questions about this loved one. Often a comfort object can be used, such as a blanket or a pillow. A person can hold this soft object and it can increase their level of security.
Sometimes, you simply do not have room in your home or perhaps the ability to provide the level of care that your parent eventually will need. If this is the case, you might be looking for nearby eldercare options specifically suitable for those with dementia, Alzheimer's and memory issues. To find a high-quality facility that fits the budget and needs of your parent, consider going through a service such as CarePlacement.com.
The staff at CarePlacement.com can help you find a suitable assisted living facility, a nursing home, a board & care facility or perhaps an in-home caregiver. They will look for facilities that have staff trained specifically to help residents with memory problems, such as Alzheimer's disease. Skilled nursing facilities, also called nursing homes, are the most affordable option as some of the cost may be covered by Medi-Cal. Assisted living homes or a board & care home might be an option for those with a larger budget.
The disease has several stages and when you begin to notice problems with memory and changes in personality, you probably will suggest that they visit the doctor and be screened for the disease. Of course, your parent could be quite resistant to this suggestion and it's hard to blame them. Alzheimer's is a very frightening prospect, and many people are angry when people suggest they see a doctor, but also very angry and depressed once they are diagnosed. Often, it is the caregivers and loved ones that bear the brunt of this anger.
It isn't easy, but keep in mind that their anger is absolutely not about you, but about fear and confusion. Imagine how you would feel if you lost your memory and were constantly confused and bewildered. Anxiety can be lessened to an extent by reducing the stimulus and stress surrounding the person with the disease. Make life as simple as possible with no responsibilities, and just meals and activities. Skip events where there will be too many people and too much noise, and while visiting with people is very important, limit the visits to just one or two people. Clean up the house and bedroom so that taking care of basic needs is as simple as possible.
Learn how to answer questions in a way that makes the person feel as though you are listening, but without making the situation more confusing. So if a parent asks where they are or who you are, respond by telling them that they are safe and then perhaps distract them by telling them that it is time for lunch or that you are fixing them a cup of tea. If they tell you they need to go to visit a relative that already is deceased, rather than arguing the point, simply ask them some questions about this loved one. Often a comfort object can be used, such as a blanket or a pillow. A person can hold this soft object and it can increase their level of security.
Sometimes, you simply do not have room in your home or perhaps the ability to provide the level of care that your parent eventually will need. If this is the case, you might be looking for nearby eldercare options specifically suitable for those with dementia, Alzheimer's and memory issues. To find a high-quality facility that fits the budget and needs of your parent, consider going through a service such as CarePlacement.com.
The staff at CarePlacement.com can help you find a suitable assisted living facility, a nursing home, a board & care facility or perhaps an in-home caregiver. They will look for facilities that have staff trained specifically to help residents with memory problems, such as Alzheimer's disease. Skilled nursing facilities, also called nursing homes, are the most affordable option as some of the cost may be covered by Medi-Cal. Assisted living homes or a board & care home might be an option for those with a larger budget.
About the Author:
Kristana Jenson enjoys reading home health care blogs. For additional details regarding assisted living San Diego facilities or for expert help finding board and care Solana Beach services, please check out the CarePlacement website today.