Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be challenging, but you are not alone. At Henry J. Austin Health Center (HJAHC), we understand the emotional toll caregiving can take, and we are here to offer guidance, support, and hope as you care for your loved one.
Everyday Care Tips
As Alzheimer’s and dementia progress, everyday tasks become harder. Here are some tips:
- Keep a Routine: Bathing, dressing, and eating at the same time daily can be comforting.
- To-Do Lists: Help your loved one write down tasks and appointments.
- Comfortable Clothing: Buy easy-to-wear clothes with elastic waistbands or large zipper pulls.
- Be Gentle: Explain each step when helping them bathe or dress.
Communication Tips
Communication can be tough, but patience is key:
- Stay Calm: Speak gently and listen.
- Use Nonverbal Communication: Queues like relaxed and positive body language can help the person understand you.
- Show Your Face: The person might be frightened if they can’t see who is speaking.
- Respect Space: Give them personal space.
- Use Familiar Objects: Keep well-loved items and photos around to help them feel secure.
- Encourage Conversation: Engage in two-way conversations for as long as possible.
Healthy and Active Lifestyle
Staying active and eating well is important:
- Daily Walks: Move your bodies together each day.
- Music and Dance: Add music to exercises to make them fun.
- Simple Choices: Offer easy food choices, like “Would you like yogurt or cottage cheese?”
Home Safety
Make your home safer with these tips:
- Handrails and Safety Strips: Install handrails and use bright tape on stairs.
- Clear Clutter: Remove items that could be tripped over.
- Good Lighting: Ensure all rooms and outdoor areas are well-lit.
- Secure Dangerous Items: Lock up cleaning products and matches.
Caregiver Support
Taking care of yourself is crucial:
- Ask for Help: Reach out to family, friends, or local services.
- Join Support Groups: Connect with others who understand your journey.
- Take Breaks: Find time for yourself each day.
- Stay Active: Exercise regularly, even short walks help.
- Seek Professional Help: Talk to behavioral health counselors at HJAHC if needed.
Seek Care from a Home Health Aide or Assisted Living
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is challenging. If you need extra help, consider these options:
- Home Health Aide: A home health aide can assist with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, providing personalized care in your home.
- Assisted Living Community: Assisted living communities offer structured activities, medical supervision, and social interaction, improving the quality of life for your loved one.
- Financial Assistance: The Alzheimer’s Association provides information on programs to help cover care costs.
- Local Resources: Explore local support services for older adults, such as respite care, adult day programs, and transportation services.
Resources and Support Groups
Connecting with others can make a big difference. Reach out to groups to share experiences and gain support from others who understand what you’re going through.
- Alzheimer’s New Jersey’s Free Family Support Groups: These groups offer caregivers a safe space to express feelings, discuss challenges, and learn about available resources. The Mercer County group meets in Princeton Junction, NJ, on the fourth Thursday of each month. To register, call the Helpline at 888-280-6055 or complete a Support Group Inquiry Form.
- Department of Human Services, Division on Aging Services (DOA): This department provides various services for seniors, including information on the Alzheimer’s Adult Day Care Services program and caregiver support. For more information, call DOA at 609-438-4733.
- Mercer County Office on Aging: This office offers information on services available in the Mercer County area for those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. For more information, call the Office on Aging at 609-989-6661 or 609-989-6662.
- Care2Caregivers: This is a free, confidential helpline for anyone concerned about or caring for someone with memory issues. You can reach the hotline at 1-800-424-2494.
- Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County: Caring volunteers provide free caregiving support services and short-term respite care. For more information, call 609-393-9922.
Remember, you are doing an amazing job. Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is not easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out, connect with others, and take care of yourself, too.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with us, visit henryjaustin.org.
