When a senior is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, it can mean a world of changes for them, their family, and their caregivers. Having conversations and making plans about long-term care using an in-home caregiver is a smart and compassionate move that allows those living with Alzheimer’s peace of mind, knowing there is a plan that has been shaped with their best interest at heart.
To have a productive and healthy discussion with your loved one about in-home care and caregivers, follow these steps:
1. Discuss In-Home Options
Things like eliminating clutter, sticking to schedules and using smart technology can help mitigate some of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and make living at home safer. Eventually, though, it will likely become impossible for the diagnosed to live alone or without significant care.
In-home caregivers allow your loved one to retain independence by assisting with those tasks made difficult or impossible for them to do by Alzheimer’s. These include preparing meals, feeding and bathing themselves, using the bathroom, and many more.
Additional options from caregiver services include things like general companionship and wellness checks. All these can be in scheduled shifts, at specific times or even as part of a 24/7 care service plan. Discuss what options are available to your loved one and what might be best for their situation.
2. Listen
Ultimately, it is the life of the person with Alzheimer’s, so it is important to give them time and respect to voice their opinions and give input about when and how certain things happen. Use the physician’s or caretaker’s suggestions to guide the conversation but let your loved one help put together the plan that will allow them to live their best life with Alzheimer’s.
3. Make a Plan
Establish guidelines for when the right time to make the move to in-home care will be. This will vary from person to person, but some things to consider are when a person can no longer consistently take medicine on their own, use the bathroom or bathe on their own or feed themselves on their own. These are all significant difficulties to a person’s quality of life and being unable to perform any or a combination of these on their own can be a strong indicator help is needed.
4. Communicate
Don’t keep your loved one in the dark about what is happening or will happen. Reassure them that you will speak with them whenever there is a change to be made and refer to the plan you make together as often as possible to reinforce the participation they had in creating the plan.
Start planning for the future today. Contact Home Helpers and let us help you make your loved one’s life with Alzheimer's as safe and comfortable as possible.
