Not only does Alzheimer's disease affect the more than 26 million people who suffer from the actual disease, it also has a far-reaching effect on loved ones, such as children or a spouse. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's is difficult not only because they simply might not remember you, but also because they can do dangerous things, wander away or lash out aggressively at caregivers.
Typically the disease progresses in stages, and the early stages can be difficult because while you might encourage your parent or spouse to visit a doctor and see if Alzheimer's is the cause of their issues, the person is obviously quite fearful of hearing the diagnosis and might resist seeing a medical professional. Once the diagnosis has been made, many patients become understandably angry and fearful and might lash out at loved ones.
While it might seem difficult, it is best to disassociate yourself from the anger and understand that this angry comes from fear and while you also are facing the loss of a dear parent, their comments and anger truly are not personal. This person is simply scared and frustrated. One way to soothe your loved one is do reduce stress as much as possible. You can get rid of extra clutter in the home and paint the walls a soothing hue. Keep them away from loud social situations and crowds, which can be very overwhelming. When you notice the person's anxiety begins to rise, speak in soft, comforting, but firm tones. They are scared, so you need to show them that you are in control and everything will be fine.
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.
As this disease progresses, it often becomes very difficult for a child or spouse to truly meet all of the needs of a person with severe dementia. At this point, it is wise to consider looking at different eldercare choices in your area. Talk to the experts at CarePlacement.com, which is a service that specializes in matching people to the most ideal eldercare options. They can find a facility that is suitable for someone with dementia, as well as one that fits within your budget.
Your budget will be a major factor in which type of facility that you choose. Typically assisted living homes and board & care homes are more expensive than nursing homes because these skilled nursing facilities do accept Medi-Cal while the other two options do not. At CarePlacement.com, the team of eldercare specialists will look at all of the facilities in your area that meet your needs and provide you with a list of suitable, pre-screened places to consider.
Typically the disease progresses in stages, and the early stages can be difficult because while you might encourage your parent or spouse to visit a doctor and see if Alzheimer's is the cause of their issues, the person is obviously quite fearful of hearing the diagnosis and might resist seeing a medical professional. Once the diagnosis has been made, many patients become understandably angry and fearful and might lash out at loved ones.
While it might seem difficult, it is best to disassociate yourself from the anger and understand that this angry comes from fear and while you also are facing the loss of a dear parent, their comments and anger truly are not personal. This person is simply scared and frustrated. One way to soothe your loved one is do reduce stress as much as possible. You can get rid of extra clutter in the home and paint the walls a soothing hue. Keep them away from loud social situations and crowds, which can be very overwhelming. When you notice the person's anxiety begins to rise, speak in soft, comforting, but firm tones. They are scared, so you need to show them that you are in control and everything will be fine.
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.
As this disease progresses, it often becomes very difficult for a child or spouse to truly meet all of the needs of a person with severe dementia. At this point, it is wise to consider looking at different eldercare choices in your area. Talk to the experts at CarePlacement.com, which is a service that specializes in matching people to the most ideal eldercare options. They can find a facility that is suitable for someone with dementia, as well as one that fits within your budget.
Your budget will be a major factor in which type of facility that you choose. Typically assisted living homes and board & care homes are more expensive than nursing homes because these skilled nursing facilities do accept Medi-Cal while the other two options do not. At CarePlacement.com, the team of eldercare specialists will look at all of the facilities in your area that meet your needs and provide you with a list of suitable, pre-screened places to consider.
About the Author:
Kristana Jenson enjoys reading home health care blogs. For additional information about assisted living San Diego facilities or for help finding board and care Solana Beach services, please check out the CarePlacement website today.
