Has your loved one received a diagnosis that will impact their ability to care for themselves over time? Caregiving for a spouse can take many forms, depending on the needs of the individual and the nature of their medical condition. You probably have many questions, and we know those questions will grow every time your loved one's needs progress.
Are you thinking of becoming a caregiver or have a spouse that was recently diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's? It's essential to understand the different types of caregiving so you can make the "next best decision" as your loved one's illness progresses. There are different types of caregiving, and they vary based on the type of care provided and the person receiving care.
Was your loved one recently diagnosed with a form of dementia? People with dementia are typically diagnosed in stage four. People in stage four have clear, visible signs of cognitive impairment and exhibit personality changes. I'm sure you notice symptoms well before a diagnosis. While doctor intervention can increase resources, validation, and support, the new journey can overwhelm many family caregivers. Dementia caregiving can be challenging and emotionally demanding, and all your feelings and concerns are valid.
A trip to the hospital can be stressful for people with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia and their caregivers. Being prepared for emergency and planned hospital visits can relieve some of that stress. This article suggests ways to help you prepare and tips for making your visit to the emergency room or hospital easier.
Family caregivers know their loved one best. When you believe something is wrong, trust your instincts! If you suspect a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer's is ill or acting unusual, contact their doctor and communicate with home health care nurses.
Falls are the leading cause of death, injury, and hospital admissions among the elderly. The CDC reports that one out of every four Americans aged 65 and older falls annually. Of the 36 million falls that happen annually in this age group, more than 8 million result in a broken hip or head trauma.
The key to managing incontinence is being prepared, empathetic, and adopting the "matter-of-fact" attitude used by nurses to reduce embarrassment.
One of the biggest struggles of dementia caregiving is challenging behavior. The most common advice is, "Don't take it personally." And while this advice is correct, it is understandably tough when it is your loved one or spouse.
While many caregivers brave stage five on their own, eventually, hygiene and other daily battles become very difficult to manage alone.
Caregiving can be an isolating and challenging experience. Family caregivers spend over 24 hours each week caring for a loved one, although some reports show over 40 hours in total caregiving duties.
