Dementia care can be rewarding and difficult at times. I hear so many stories, good and bad from caregivers who are taking care of loved ones suffering from dementia. Often times you can hear the frustration, anger, stress, tiredness, and lack of understanding through the writings of these caregivers. As a Geriatric Consultant I must ask, have you reached out to a service for help? Support groups are VERY, VERY HELPFUL and needed, but sometimes your situation/needs may require an additional resource.
Would it be nice to have an experienced, knowledgeable person by your side to help you understand the behaviors that are associated with having dementia, decrease some stress, create a plan of care to make things easier throughout the day, and possibly allow you to get some rest? There are services that will help you, but it requires ASKING FOR HELP. Many caregivers are in situations where family members are not willing to help care for there loved one who is suffering from dementia. Without help and an understanding about dementia, dementia care can become difficult. Complaining about the situation does not solve the problem, but asking for help will.
TIP OF THE DAY: If you are utilizing a service that specializes in helping seniors who suffer from dementia and the caregivers, they may offer a free consultation. If it is not listed on the website, ask the business if they offer a free consultation. Here are a few suggestive questions to ask:
How long have you been in business?
What are your certifications and/or qualifications?
How would you help improve my situation?
Is there a fee? If so is it covered under insurance?
It saddens my heart to read about some of the caregiver stories, but I want to let you know that there are services out there that can help decrease the stress, tiredness, frustration, anger, lack of knowledge about dementia. There are professionals who specialize in the area of Geriatrics who have the experience and knowledge to help improve your situation. The question is are you going to reach out for help? Click on link below.
By: Tamaria Smith-Gillespie
(Geriatric Consultant)
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