If you’re taking care of a senior parent with Alzheimer’s there’s probably a lot of stress on both of you. Alzheimer’s affects every senior differently, so sometimes it can feel like you’re all alone when you’re trying to help a senior parent manage their symptoms and live safely at home. It’s stressful for your mom or dad too. They probably don’t like depending on you for help, and they may be embarrassed by the way that Alzheimer’s affects them. It’s not easy for them to accept the changes they’re going through and the impact those changes have on their life. Dementia care at home can help relieve stress for you and your senior parent.
Having dementia care at home means that your mom or dad will have the benefit of having a care provider that understands how Alzheimer’s progresses. They have training in the best ways to communicate with someone who has Alzheimer’s. And they have experience helping seniors who are struggling with Alzheimer’s symptoms. A caregiver who’s trained to provide dementia care at home can alleviate the stress in the relationship that you have with your mom or dad so that you can focus on having quality time with them.
Some of the ways that a dementia care provider can eliminate stress on you and your mom or dad are:
Provide Structure and Routine
Seniors with Alzheimer’s often feel calmer with a structured daily routine. Professional caregivers know how to create and follow consistent schedules.
They can be there with your mom or dad every day to make sure meals, activities, and rest times happen at the same time each day. This reduces confusion and anxiety for your parent. A predictable routine also gives you peace of mind, knowing your mom or dad is in a stable environment.
Handle Challenging Behaviors
Alzheimer’s can lead to difficult behaviors in seniors, such as aggression, wandering, or agitation. If you are frustrated or upset by your mom or dad’s behaviors that can damage your relationship with them.
Professional caregivers are trained to respond with patience and skill. They know techniques to de-escalate tension and keep your senior parent safe. With their help, these situations become less stressful for everyone.
Provide Supervision and Safety
Safety is a constant concern for seniors with Alzheimer’s. They may forget to turn off the stove, wander outside, or trip over hazards. A professional caregiver can closely supervise your mom or dad all day to prevent accidents.
They also make sure your parent stays in a safe environment. Knowing someone is always there to watch over them can make it easier for you to take care of your other responsibilities without worrying about your mom or dad.
Offer Emotional and Social Support
Alzheimer’s can make seniors feel isolated and withdrawn. Professional caregivers provide companionship and meaningful interaction. They can engage your senior parent with activities like puzzles, music, or looking through photo albums. These moments lift your parent’s mood and reduce loneliness. For you, it’s comforting to know your loved one has someone they can connect with.
Allow You to Take Breaks
As a family caregiver, burnout is a real risk. Taking care of yourself is essential, but it’s hard to step away when your parent needs constant attention. A professional caregiver gives you the chance to rest. Whether it’s a few hours to run errands or a day off to recharge, their support allows you to take needed breaks. This helps you return to caregiving refreshed and less stressed.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Dementia Care Services in Lebanon PA, please contact the caring staff at Extended Family Care Lancaster today. Call (717) 391-6363
Extended Family Care Lancaster is a Trusted Home Care Agency in Lancaster, Pennsylvania including Columbia, Elizabethtown, Ephrata, Hershey, Lebanon, Lititz, Manheim, New Holland, and Paradise.
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