How to be the Best Dementia Caregiver You Can Be
When you’re considering becoming a dementia caregiver, it’s important to do your research and build a support network to help you through the challenges you’ll face. These caregiving stressors can include everything from managing behaviors to finances, and feeling isolation and burnout. But it’s also important to remember that being a caregiver can be incredibly rewarding, as you get to play a vital role in improving your loved one’s quality of life.
Here are some of the best resources for dementia caregivers, as well as some tips on how to use them:
1. The Alzheimer’s Association – This website is packed with resources for caregivers, including an online community, educational materials, and a 24/7 Helpline (1-800-272-3900) where you can get support and advice from trained professionals. When you’re first getting started as a caregiver, spend some time browsing the Alzheimer’s Association website so you can familiarize yourself with all the resources that are available to you.
2. Caring.com – Caring.com is another great resource for caregivers, offering articles, tips, and advice on everything from caregiving basics to Elder law and estate planning. They also have an online forum where caregivers can connect with each other and share their experiences. When you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to, spending some time on Caring.com can give you the support you need.
3. Your local Area Agency on Aging – Every state has an Area Agency on Aging that provides services and support for seniors and their caregivers. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to see what resources are available in your community, such as respite care, support groups, or transportation assistance.
4. The National Family Caregivers Association – The National Family Caregivers Association is a great resource for both experienced and new caregivers. They offer caregiving courses, webinars, publications, and an online community where caregivers can connect with each other. If you’re feeling stressed or need some guidance, the National Family Caregivers Association can provide you with the support you need.
5. Your loved one’s healthcare team – Don’t forget that your loved one’s healthcare team is a vital resource for information and support. Be sure to build a good relationship with your loved one’s doctors, nurses, and other professionals so you can get the information and advice you need to provide the best possible care.
Conclusion
Being a caregiver for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding. To be the best caregiver you can be, finding specific resources for dementia caregivers is vital. It will be important to do your research and build a support network of family, friends, and professionals who can help you through the challenges you’ll face. Because it involves admitting vulnerability, asking for help takes some courage. But, remember, this is also one of the bravest acts you can take for someone you love. By taking advantage of the resources that are available to dementia caregivers, you can make sure they receive the highest quality of care possible.
About Isaac Health
Isaac Health is a specialized online memory health service that arranges for patients to meet with a telehealth clinician who can diagnose and treat memory loss, Alzheimer’s dementia, and other related conditions. Isaac Health provides medical care and cognitive therapy for patients in New York, Florida, and North Carolina who are concerned about symptoms of dementia.
For more information or If you’d like to understand whether you or a loved one may benefit from new Alzheimer’s disease treatments, schedule a free no-obligation discovery consultation with a member of the Isaac Health team.