Loneliness. Confusion. Isolation. These feelings are getting to be common for many of us during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, when you factor in Alzheimer’s disease, the difficulties and frustrations are heightened to a whole new level.
Consider, for instance, the short-term loss of memory inherent in dementia. A family care provider looking for the proper way to explain why the senior won’t be able to head out for coffee, get a haircut, or visit with the neighbors may need to offer up that explanation many times – often within the same day.
Sue Spalding, Chief Executive Officer of the Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota, North Dakota Chapter, stresses the need for helping individuals with dementia to limit unnecessary stress, which could accelerate the progression of the disease. So how can family and friends best help their loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease to comfortably navigate life during a pandemic? Here are a few helpful recommendations:
- Stay calm. Although you may feel anxious and weighed down because of the state of the world, it is a good idea to keep from discussing alarming issues or even watching the news with a senior loved one with dementia. Be sure to determine an appropriate outlet for your feelings, however – your partner or other members of the family, a therapist, or trusted friend.
- Stick with a routine. Needless to say, certain previously enjoyed routines that entail outings or visits with family members might need to be put on hold. However, maintain a predictable schedule in your home that’s comforting to the senior, such as a certain time for meals, exercise, hobbies, and bedtime.
- Institute a backup plan. In the event that you were to become ill, who would be qualified to step up to care for your parent? Strategizing now, before the need arises, is crucial. Partnering with a skilled home care agency, like Independence-4-Seniors Home Care, the top providers of home care in Hinsdale and the surrounding area, is the perfect solution, plus it’s a great idea to set up for regular respite care now, to help the senior become accustomed and comfortable with having another caregiver inside your home.
And remember, it’s vitally important for you to take care of yourself, too! Be sure to designate time every day for relaxing, enjoyable activities to help you to unwind and destress, to remain connected with friends and family, to follow a healthy diet and exercise routine, and also to get plenty of sleep. If carving out time for yourself is a problem, let us know – we have the solution you need!
While we all continue to wait for a vaccine or effective treatment option for COVID-19, understand that Independence-4-Seniors Home Care is equipped and ready to safely care for seniors, including those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, following all recommended protective guidelines. Reach out to us online or at (630) 323-4665 to arrange an in-home consultation for more information.