Caring for a mom or dad in the latter stages of Alzheimer’s is a challenge. It can feel like you’re watching a toddler all over again, only this toddler is adult-sized. If you’re a family caregiver, don’t overlook the tasks you need to be completing each day and the challenges you’ll face. If you let Alzheimer’s care tips help you out, the good days outweigh the rougher ones.
Your Parent May Hide Things
It’s not uncommon for someone with Alzheimer’s to hide things. That ball of socks may not just be socks. It could have money tucked into it. The container of coffee in the cupboard may be where your dad decides to hide his glasses. Your mom may put her purse inside the sofa bed.
If something goes missing, don’t look in the usual spots. You need to start thinking randomly. Look for items in the freezer, inside food or detergent containers, or behind furniture.
Learn to Distract
Distractions are going to be your biggest help. Your mom or dad may become angry or upset over something trivial. Your mom may get frustrated that the soap doesn’t smell right. Your dad may get frustrated that his favorite show isn’t on, only that show hasn’t been on the air for decades.
When you’re dealing with agitation and know the meltdown is about to hit, distraction is important. Put on some music at a volume your parent won’t miss. Serve a snack. Ask your parent to join you for a walk outside.
The distraction is one of the best ways to stop the meltdown. Once that’s managed, see if you can figure out what caused the meltdown. It could be your mom has a headache or your dad is hungry. If you can figure out what’s wrong, you can take steps to prevent the episode.
You may not be able to find anything that’s wrong. See if there is a specific time of day the meltdowns hit. It could be that your parent is sundowning. If that’s the case, get lights turned on before the sun starts to set. Create a ritual around that schedule that gives your mom the consistency she needs.
Walk Away When Needed
When you need to walk away and take a break, don’t hesitate. With caregivers from elderly care agencies, make the most of having caregivers who can help out. Go for a drive, visit friends, or head to a trail for a hike.
When you return from your break, you’ll be refreshed and ready to jump back in. The breaks provided by elderly care services are what you need to stay healthy emotionally and physically.
For Elderly Care Services in Cordova TN, please contact the caring staff at Personal Care Services MidSouth today!