Learning that a parent has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive form of dementia, can send you into a whirlwind of thoughts and feelings. You may be overcome by emotions, or you may simply have no idea what your next step should be. If you are seeking stay at-home care in Cherry Hill NJ, we can help.
Deal with Your Feelings
You may feel many contradictory emotions when your parent is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
- Fear about what lies ahead
- Isolation, especially if none of your friends are having a similar experience
- Relief that at least you have some answers
- Resentment that you and your parent are going through such an ordeal
- Sadness at the declines your parent is facing
We provide dementia care Mount Laurel, NJ, so that you can seek support to deal with your feelings while knowing that your parent is in good hands. You can use extra free time to pamper yourself, to get together with friends or to meet with a counselor or a support group.
Address Safety Issues
Often by the time a person receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, he or she is no longer able to live alone. Some people with Alzheimer’s may wander away from their homes or get lost. Others leave the oven or stove on, or leave water running. People with dementia are also at risk for falling and not knowing how to get help.
When you call us about memory care Mount Laurel, New Jersey, we will evaluate your loved one at home and put together a comprehensive type of care that addresses safety and well-being.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
While Alzheimer’s disease cannot be reversed or cured, it is important for your parent to remain in good shape. When we provide senior care, we can help your parent maintain a regular routine. We can also encourage physical exercise like dancing, walking or low-impact aerobics. Exercising the brain is just as important as exercising the body. We can help your parent stay as sharp as possible through conversations and simple brain games.
Another important part of staying healthy is diet. Our caregivers can provide nutritious meals including fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids.
Finally, we recognize that people with Alzheimer’s disease may be prone to intense anxiety. We can promote relaxation through soft music, gentle massage, aromatherapy and encouraging your loved one to reminisce about his or her happiest times.
Plan for the Future
Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time. Even if your loved one is still able to function reasonably well right now, it is a good idea to contact an elder law attorney to help plan for the days ahead when your loved one will not be able to handle his or her money or make medical decisions.
It’s painful to learn that your parent has Alzheimer’s disease. You may feel alone and frightened. If you’re looking for at-home senior health care, we can guide you through the steps you need to take and ensure that both you and your loved one enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
