Father with Alzheimer's, how should we take care of it

How to care for a parent with Alzheimer's

Caring for a parent with Alzheimer's is not a case that can affect us all, but surely the fact falls on someone you know. It is not common as we have just said, but it can be suffered by anyone and may appear as an unexpected phenomenon and by surprise; therefore, it can happen to all of us.

You will discover that it is a very important change for everyone, both for the person who suffers from it, and for the rest of the family members who are going to be in their care. A parent with Alzheimer's will notice that it is part of personalized care and you will first feel great frustration when you see that you need someone in your care.

How to start caring for a parent with Alzheimer's

A parent with Alzheimer's has become someone else and needs special care. Unfortunately we can't talk about the new advancesIt's like a resolution to a better quality of life, but to increase your life expectancy.

Your disease is progressive and perhaps they are only showing their first symptoms, but as time passes their degeneration may increase. The nerve cells of the brain are destroyed and their brain mass decreases, Therefore, temporal and spatial disorientation, memory loss and great intellectual and personal deterioration can manifest.

Little by little your personal care will be essential and it will be more and more permanent, where difficulties as simple as eating, dressing or walking will manifest themselves. It is when you have to consider going looking for a caregiver or, failing that, a trusted family member.

It is possible that, if you are going to do without a person to accompany you and be able to do your homework, you will have to confront the situation in a personal way. You will have to make a formal introduction with that person and your father, and speak accordingly about such a situation. You have to go explaining the new position that will be presented so that you can assimilate it.

How to care for a parent with Alzheimer's

Is it essential to hire a professional caregiver?

It is clear that the care that a person with Alzheimer's may need can be extreme. With advanced disease, it can be dispense with care 24 hours a day. That is why it can be very exhausting and more if the person in charge has to work.

Perhaps the first approach that comes to mind it is the economic issue. Perhaps in that aspect it is something that is very disadvantaged since unfortunately the independence law does not make it very easy. A social worker can inform you of what you can borrow, although at this point there are no great economic solutions.

Relying on a person who can take care of you and being trusted it can allow you more time for yourself. In addition, you will take care of your mental health since you do not have to carry so much of your responsibility in the care of someone else. This type of relief will help you keep many moments, clearer and without pressure.

How to care for a parent with Alzheimer's

If you have decided to take care of it personally

The first thing you have to do is gather as much information as possible about said disease and their care. There are organizations like the Alzheimer's Association and the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Reference Center (ADEAR) that will help you follow better treatment and solve daily problems much better.

Join a community and support group it is a very good choice. Whenever your time allows, you should unload your feelings and concerns into these collective groups. That is why you should look for a support person to be able to enjoy the little moments that you need for yourself.

If you are allowed some exterior care look for the worst load moments. The most flexible moments and where I can cooperate more easily with you, save them for yourself. You must adapt your routine to the best needs and not overload the days.

When looking for moments together, you must do things that you like and make you feel good about. What really works is remind you of childhood moments and share old hobbies.

Daily routines for a parent with Alzheimer's

Establish a daily routine, you have to follow the same pattern of activities every day.

  • You have to get dressed every day and this does not have to be a complicated task. You may let him do it himself if it is within your capabilities. You shall offer you garments one at a time and dress slowly. Always choose comfortable clothing that can be handled easily, without many buttons or zippers.

How to care for a parent with Alzheimer's

  • A fixed schedule for meals of the day: It is important to follow a routine and you have to do it in a quiet environment without distractions. Must be patient and avoid the rushIt is at mealtime, as it can cause confusion and anxiety.
  • If the person eats alone, make it easier for you to use cutlery and use deep plates. Drinks, if possible, that contain a lid so as not to waste liquids and that they drink more easily, also the use of straws are very practical. You have to be careful with your diet, as there are people who cannot take care of their appetite and can eat compulsively.
  • Bathtime: it can be a relaxing time, that is why you have to anticipate everything you need before planning the moment. For some patients this moment can be uncomfortable out of fear, but you have to arm yourself with patience. If you think the bathroom is not practical you can use a quick shower.

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