The Essentials of Caring for Someone with Dementia

Finding out that your loved one has Alzheimer's disease or some form of dementia is news no one wants to receive. It is a heartbreaking experience watching memories, and everyday motor functions fade. On top of the progressive memory loss, dementia often leads to personality changes and drastic mood changes that affect the relationship between caregivers and family members. 

If we've learned anything in 2020, it's that our older family members are meant to be treasured. We know it can be extra-challenging to be a senior caregiver during the holiday season, especially if your loved one suffers from a cognitive disease like Alzheimer's Disease (AD) or dementia.

The holidays are always a special time. This year, as we're learning to navigate the uncharted waters, the holidays feel especially poignant. It's a time to cherish our elderly family and make some memories that our youngest can remember years from now. 

The holidays can be stressful for family caregivers during an ordinary year. This year, our holidays will look a bit different. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't enjoy ourselves and spend meaningful time with our senior loved ones. 

Wandering is dangerous. And it's common among seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. The Alzheimer's Association says six in ten dementia patients will wander.

Dementia is a progressive cognitive disease. It's not curable, but it can be managed in the early stages. Eventually, however, this brain disease will progress to the point that it requires full-time care in an assisted living home or memory care home. 

Acting as the family caregiver for an adult with dementia or Alzheimer's Disease is rewarding and quite difficult at times. At Weatherly Inn, we understand the challenges of caring for a senior family member with dementia, and we're here to help.

We know how difficult it can be when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia. As a caring spouse, child or grandchild of someone with dementia, we know you'll experience a roller-coaster of emotions. 

Being a caregiver for an aging family member can be incredibly challenging. And there comes a point when their care needs become too overwhelming or even impossible for you to handle on your own.