It is never easy caring for an aging parent who is exhibiting signs of dementia, but when that dementia is directly related to Alzheimer’s disease, those challenges are intensified. In fact, there may come a time when you are facing the very real possibility that being the main caregiver is beyond the scope of what you can handle. That said, you need to realize that you are not alone and that there is nothing to feel guilty about. It is okay to be frustrated but never okay to feel guilty. Just being there shows the level of your love and care, so instead of knocking yourself out over the challenges of caring for a parent with dementia, find acceptable solutions.
Dealing with Memory Loss
Even though there are several causes of dementia in the aging, Alzheimer’s disease is the leading underlying cause representing more than 55 million people around the globe as of 2020. Sadly, that number is projected to reach 78 million within just the next eight years and by 2050, Alzheimer’s Disease International predicts that number will reach at least 139 million sufferers of the disease.
One thing Alzheimer’s patients have in common is the continual loss of memory function and that is the initial challenge family members face when taking on Alzheimer’s care of an aging parent. Once memory loss progresses to the point where mom or dad can’t be safely left alone, even in a room in the family home, it’s time to look at Alzheimer’s care assisted living services at St. Louis Hills, for example. It’s hard when mom or dad can’t remember who you are but if they can’t remember that a hot pan will burn them, professional help is absolutely required.
Defusing Agitation
In the early stages of memory loss, sufferers can become a bit frustrated when they can’t remember certain words, or people they’ve always known. Names are among the most common early memory lapses but that will soon progress to most of what they are trying to say or do. At this point a patient can become quite agitated and a violent outburst is not uncommon.
Coping with Deterioration in Bodily Functions
At some point, memory loss will progress to failure in other organs, and this is the point where most families begin considering 24/7 professional care. As a caregiver, you are still going to be facing an escalating amount of memory and cognitive loss, but then other organs and bodily functions begin to fail. Since there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, is this something you are prepared to deal with?
Caring for a parent with dementia can be challenging. The parent may not recognize you, and their memory can be fading. They may need to give up driving and require more care than they had in the past. These changes will cause them to have a difficult time living independently, so it might be necessary to move them into memory care facilities in RI. It’s important to take care of yourself as well as your parent during this time.
Memory care facilities provide services that enable people who are diagnosed with memory loss to maintain their independence, dignity, and lifestyle. These homes have the ability to help with bathing, dressing, cooking, and other daily tasks that others in the family might be unable to perform. They also offer a range of therapies and treatments for people who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.