Why Dementia Care at Home Can Be Difficult for Families
As dementia is a progressive disease, the initial stages can be quite manageable. However, as the disease inevitably advances, caring for your loved one at home can become increasingly difficult. Senior caregiving is a full-time commitment and can become incredibly stressful, especially if you are working a full-time job, have little experience with memory disorders, or if you are busy caring for your own family. To balance in-home care duties with your own life, you will need a network of support. Here’s some of the challenges that in-home memory caregivers commonly face, and signs that it may be time to consider an alternative solution for your loved one with dementia.
Safety and security – People with dementia can become frail, confused, and wander out of a safe space. Making the home more secure is the first challenge, and that can mean improving lighting, eliminating fall risks and putting up pictures or clear signs to label where things are kept.
Eating – As the disease progresses, caregivers need to encourage a healthy diet and watch for signs that swallowing and chewing are becoming more difficult.
Aggression – Frustration, confusion, stress and agitation can easily lead to aggressive behaviors, which are often upsetting and difficult for families to manage. Having a set routine, promoting healthy sleep and gentle exercise, and massage can help relax your loved one.
Isolation – When your loved one has dementia, it is easy for you as a caregiver to become isolated as their care needs grow more demanding. Neglecting important relationships, feeling depressed and lonely are common challenges for caregivers and can easily lead to burn out. Having time and space for self-care is critical for all caregivers, but especially for those people caring for people with dementia.
Awareness and education – Unless you have dementia caregiving experience, it is very challenging to manage on your own and learn as you go. Home care aides, support groups and medical resources can provide practical insight as well as a helping hand.
Planning for the future – When it comes to dementia, caregiving needs to be more than “one day at a time,” and caregivers need to plan for the future. It’s important to realize your personal limitations and know that help is always available from professionals. Having an in-home caregiver not only helps you provide the best possible care but allows you to spend quality time with your loved one.
HomeWorks provides seniors in Sussex County and throughout New Jersey with expert in-home care and companionship. To find out more about hiring an experienced, compassionate home care aide, please visit our website at UMCHomeWorks.org.
