Some caregivers feel guilty about telling other family members they can’t do it alone. But they’re not being fair to themselves. They’re not taking care of their own physical health, or emotional health. No one – no one! – can do this job without an occasional break!
If you’re lucky enough to have family or friends willing to help, use them. But, even if you don’t, you can still get a break.
- PRIVATE DUTY HOME CARE - Ask your local Alzheimer’s Association or Area Agency on Aging. These agencies can provide people who can help with daily activities such as bathing, sitting, driving your loved one to her appointments, shopping, and meals.
- ADULT DAY SERVICES – You can bring your loved one to a center where he’ll be with others his age, in a supervised situation. But if your loved one has Alzheimer’s, be sure you find a center with experience caring for Alzheimer’s patients.
- OVERNIGHT CARE – Many assisted-living facilities and nursing homes offer short-term stays (generally based on availability).
- HIRE A CAREGIVER – Your church, Alzheimer’s Association, or Area Agency on Aging may be able to recommend an independent caregiver who’ll come to your home. Keep in mind, though, that “independent” means just that – so you must carefully check backgrounds, references, qualifications, etc. Have a long conversation – or two – with your prospective caregiver. Watch how she interacts with your loved one. And don’t be afraid to ask your loved one’s opinion – people with dementia are often surprisingly perceptive!
In fact, over the past 33 years, we’ve walked thousands of South Florida families through the Alzheimer’s/Dementia Journey. And we’ve helped protect their rights – legal and financial – with comprehensive estate planning, wills, trusts, powers of attorney, long-term care planning, asset-protection plans, and assistance with Medicaid or the VA.
We can walk your family through the Alzheimer’s/Dementia Journey, too. We’re just a phone call away.
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