The Alzheimer Society of Canada reports more than 560,000 Canadian seniors are living with some form of dementia. The majority of affected seniors are being cared for by one or more family members. The challenges encountered when caring for an elderly loved one with dementia are many. Caregivers cannot continue performing their roles on a long-term basis without social support, which offers several benefits.
1. Reduces Anxiety
As dementia progresses, seniors exhibit mood changes. They may initially become depressed or frustrated when they’re aware of their degrading cognitive function, and their ongoing negative thoughts and emotions can have an adverse effect on their caregivers, who are expected to provide continual compassion and support. As their brain damage advances, seniors often become more confused and suspicious, which commonly leads to episodes of anger or aggression. They may begin to refuse care or act out for no apparent reason. Having to handle these issues on a daily basis causes stress for caregivers. By having family, friends, and support groups available, caregivers have people to whom they can vent without judgment.
2. Provides a Resource for Information
By connecting with other dementia caregivers in local or online dementia support groups, caregivers can gain information concerning their parents’ mental and physical diagnoses and prognoses. Along with learning what to expect, caregivers can learn techniques that might enable them to more effectively handle various situations. Social support groups provide the opportunity to learn more about dietary recommendations, current medications, and treatment options.
Caring for seniors with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers, but they don’t have to do it alone. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
3. Enhances Caregiving Skills
Acquiring knowledge is an ongoing process that benefits caregivers and their senior loved ones alike. The knowledge gained by networking with others through social support resources enables caregivers to enhance their skills and provide a higher quality of care to their loved ones.
4. Develops Better Management Skills
Without assistance, knowledge, and support, caregivers can easily become overwhelmed and are more susceptible to burnout. By obtaining knowledge concerning their loved ones’ condition, the disease’s progression, and techniques needed to handle situations that may arise, caregivers are better able to manage the aspects of caring for loved ones with dementia. By utilizing social support networks, caregivers also learn self-care is vitally important. Caregivers are better equipped to provide their loved ones with the best care possible by incorporating better self-care techniques.
The responsibilities associated with caring for a loved one with dementia can sometimes feel overwhelming, but help is available. Families looking for top-rated Waterloo home care service providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
5. Alleviates Loneliness & Isolation
Seniors living with dementia require varying degrees of supervision and assistance. Caregivers may feel they must be present 24/7. However, in time, they may become isolated from other family members and friends. Loneliness develops, which leaves caregivers susceptible to depression. By taking advantage of social support options, caregivers can alleviate their emotional and mental burdens and be better able to confront challenges. Accepting social support from the start helps caregivers avoid the pitfalls of isolation and loneliness.
Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Waterloo 24-hour care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or is recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Home Care Assistance to enhance his or her quality of life. If you need professional care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (519) 954-2111.