When an aging parent gets the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, it can be quite devastating for them as well as their family members. As the disease progresses, the aging parent’s ability to take care of themselves and their home diminishes. Family caregivers may start out feeling like they can tackle any kind of care their aging mom or dad needs, but they need to open their eyes to the realities of the situation, so they can make good decisions for both their own health and that of their elderly parent.
The Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease
Millions of American seniors suffer from various stages of Alzheimer’s disease. In the early stages, there are almost no symptoms to notice, but from mild to moderate stages, cognitive ability declines. In this phase of progression, aging adults may struggle to do some basic tasks for themselves, such as remember when to take medicine, follow a recipe or pay the bills. They may forget to take their medicine, take a shower every week or attend a doctor’s appointment. As the disease progresses, seniors need more and more help from their family caregivers.
As the Alzheimer’s disease progresses, family caregivers must give more of their time and energy to caring for their aging loved one. It’s easy for them to become overstressed and overworked, especially if they are doing the bulk of the caregiving on their own. Family caregivers can burn out quite easily and suffer from numerous physical and mental health issues like weight gain or loss, high blood pressure, weak immunity, depression and anxiety. If they are dealing with their own health problems, family caregivers are not as efficient in caring or their aging loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.
Hiring Elderly Care Providers for Seniors
The best thing that a family caregiver can do for their aging loved one and themselves is to hire an elderly care provider to assist with daily care. Family caregivers can count on a trained professional to take good care of their elderly parent while they are away. Family caregivers can have confidence that the elderly care provider has the skills and abilities to handle any issues that might arise in taking care of the aging adult. With a compassionate and capable elderly care provider at home with the aging adult, the family caregiver can take time for themselves to exercise, run errands, attend to other family members, or just enjoy some respite.
Taking care of an elderly mom or dad with Alzheimer’s disease is extremely challenging, and without help, family caregivers can quickly feel overwhelmed and alone. Hiring an elderly care provider gives family caregivers a chance to take care of themselves so they can be at their best for their aging loved one.
If you or an aging loved one needs Elderly Care in Lincoln, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
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