Caring for a loved one who is living with Alzheimer's disease can sometimes seem like an overwhelming task. There are a number of roles to juggle – you are not only a caregiver to help meet physical needs, but a cook, money manager and perhaps maid.
If you provide care for an aging parent or family member with Alzheimer's, you are not alone. Along with support services such as in-home care in the Lehigh Valley, the following are just a few of the great resources available to assist family caregivers in this new stage of life.
The internet is a powerful tool, giving you instant access to information and providing online support groups for caregivers. A quick online search will yield thousands of resources for your perusal. The Dementia & Alzheimer's Caregiver Center is one of our favorites and is a trusted source of information. Providing current news about Alzheimer's research, this website also provides support through online forums and access to a toll-free 24/7 helpline. You'll find tools such as a customized calendar to organize your loved one's activities and appointments, as well as online courses and workshops for caregiver training.
Your Smartphone gives you access to information on the go, and can become yet another useful tool in your journey as a caregiver. With a variety of apps available for download, you'll find a wide range of information and support. The Alzheimer's and Other Dementias Daily Companion app is one such program designed to guide you through the daily trials and tribulations you'll confront. Other apps may include medication mangers, caregiver calendars and symptom trackers. And the best part? Many are free or available for a low price.
There are many books and novels available on the topic of providing care for an Alzheimer's patient. Along with educational books about the disease itself, there are novels written by family caregivers who have experienced the firsthand struggles of caring for a senior with Alzheimer's.
Knowledge is power. By utilizing the tools discussed above, you can learn how to cope with being an Alzheimer's caregiver. For more information about professional Alzheimer's care Lehigh Valley families trust, reach out to Home Care Assistance today. We are a trusted and premier provider of in-home Alzheimer's care and offer high quality care as well as compassionate support for both seniors and their families. To request a complimentary, in-home consultation, call 484-350-3874.