Now is the perfect time to talk more openly about the realities of taking care of a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s. Not every solution will work for every senior with Alzheimer’s. But talking about different approaches that you can take to solve some of the challenges that go with caring for a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s can give family caregivers options to try.
Taking a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s out to the doctor, to run errands, or out to eat can be a fun experience that allows your senior loved one to have some great moments. But it can be very nerve wracking for caregivers who are focused on keeping their senior loved one safe and engaged during the outing. Here are a few things that can make it easier to take your loved one with Alzheimer’s out in public:
Schedule Appointments Early
Many seniors with Alzheimer’s are more alert and have better cognition earlier in the day. By the afternoon or late afternoon they may be tired and their cognition can be poor which can lead to confusion and irritability. Try to schedule doctor’s appointments, hair cut appointments, and other service appointments for as early as possible. Going to appointments in the morning will increase the chances that your senior loved one will understand more of what’s going on.
Take Frequent Breaks
Plan ahead and leave plenty of time to take breaks when you are taking your senior loved one with Alzheimer’s out in public. Every ten or fifteen minutes take a break and have them sit down and rest so that they can get their bearings. Even if they don’t have any trouble walking breaks are essential. Make sure that the places you are going has places where you both can sit and take a break.
Avoid Crowds And Overstimulation
Seniors with Alzheimer’s are easily overstimulated and overwhelmed by crowds, lights, and noise. Going to a store or to a crowded doctor’s office can be too much for them to process. If you are going shopping go early in the day before stores are crowded. Avoid places like the mall which are noisy, crowded, and have bright lighting. If you going to the doctor and can’t avoid a crowded waiting room consider asking the receptionist to text you when the doctor is ready for you and take your senior loved one to the atrium or café or any area that is quieter and less overwhelming.
Safety First
Safety is the most important thing when you’re taking your senior loved one with Alzheimer’s out. If you think you might need help to look after your senior loved one because you need to manage the shopping or check in with the doctor or worry about parking then take a home care assistance provider out with you. The home care assistance provider can make sure that your senior loved one is safe while you take care of the things that you need to take care of.
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care assistance in Laurel, MT, call the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Billings today. 406-839-2390
