In home care, we recently have noticed an increase in many patients and family members that suffer with some form of dementia or Alzheimer's Disease. It's a challenge at best, even with the best of help!
In the early stages, our patients may seem pretty normal and can even make you believe it's just a brief lapse in memory – but it's not! As time goes on, the brief lapses can turn into more frequent issues of forgetfulness. It could be the beginning of a much more challenging issue: Dementia or Alzheimer's Disease.
Dealing with this type of disease can be difficult and overwhelming. For caregivers, we highly recommend seeking a way to provide respite care. (Respite is a nice way of saying relief, or, time away from the patient.) Yes, the family and the caregivers need a break, without any guilty feelings! The best way to be able to have the endurance needed as a caregiver is to take some personal time.
Many times, family or friends can help sit with and entertain the patient while the caregiver gets personal time to themselves. This personal time away is best used as time to recharge. That means "fun," not grocery shopping or chores. We suggest going to a movie, reading a book, or pursuing other hobbies. Caregivers need and deserve personal time.
And if no one is available to help, Reliance Home Health Care can send a Private Duty Aide. This can be paid for with a Long-term Care Insurance Policy, Veteran's Administration benefits or through family funds and resources. If your loved one has Medicare and qualifies for home services, the evaluation is covered at 100%, and there's no charge to call and ask questions.
All it takes is one phone call and you will gain a partner (and friend!) that will help you navigate the healthcare hoops and provide you the assistance and peace of mind you need for the journey ahead.