Caring for a senior with dementia comes with unique challenges. It can be difficult to watch your senior loved one lose his or her grip on the past and present, and it’s easy to get caregiver fatigue. Here are a few ways family caregivers can get support when caring for seniors with dementia.
Stay Connected Online
Caregivers aren’t alone. There are thousands of people in similar situations who are experiencing the same difficulties. Caregivers can turn to online communities when they’re feeling confused, depressed, or alone. There are plenty of message boards, blogs, and newsletters designed for people caring for seniors with dementia. This invaluable network of people can provide the support caregivers need to stay strong.
Opt for Respite Care
Sometimes caregivers need breaks. Respite care is an excellent way to get temporary reprieves from caregiving duties. Family caregivers can choose the care options best suited to their circumstances and rest easy knowing their loved ones are receiving excellent care. Respite caregivers are well versed in working with seniors with dementia and know how to calm them, communicate with them, and more.
When researching agencies that provide homecare, families are usually looking for flexible care plans, compassionate and highly trained caregivers, and 24/7 availability. Whether you need respite care to take a break from your caregiving duties or your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, you can rely on Prestige Home Care Orlando.
Read Books about Dementia Caregiving
There are many books on the subject of caring for seniors with dementia, and they provide several tips. Popular titles include Learning to Speak Alzheimer’s by Joanne Koenig Coste, Inside the Dementia Epidemic by Martha Stettinius, and The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer’s Disease by Nancy L. Mace. These books and the valuable information they contain can provide caregivers with a support system when they’re feeling anxious.
A dementia diagnosis can be difficult for seniors and their families to face. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Prestige Home Care Orlando, a leading provider of home care Orlando, FL, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Join Caregiving Support Groups
Some people prefer to discuss their caregiving challenges online. However, others enjoy attending caregiver support groups. There are many support groups specifically created for dementia caregivers. These groups provide safe spaces to discuss emotional needs and talk about effective caregiving strategies. Many people find these support groups informative and fulfilling, and they often develop close friendships with their fellow caregivers.
Seek Support from Friends & Family
Being a dementia caregiver can be challenging, and it’s important for caregivers to have family and friends they can turn to. Seniors with dementia change over time, and their needs alter as well. When caregivers face new challenges, instead of letting their stress get the best of them, they should take breaks. They could meet friends for coffee at local cafés or take yoga classes with exercise buddies. Social interaction allows caregivers to take care of themselves and get the support they need.
Caring for a senior with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers. Luckily, there is dementia care Orlando families can rely on. Professional dementia caregivers help seniors with dementia stay safe and comfortable at home by preventing wandering, providing cognitive stimulation, and assisting with household chores. Call Prestige Home Care Orlando at (407) 604-0504 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.