If you’ve learned that your loved one has Alzheimer’s, it’s hard to know where to begin. There are many ways you can be more helpful to your loved one during this challenging time. Know what to do when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
Learn About Alzheimer’s
The first step in helping your loved one is to learn more about their condition. Your loved one will start to struggle with memory, and eventually, their memory loss may interfere with their regular day. With Alzheimer’s disease, thinking, emotions, and behaviors can change over time. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which unfortunately means that memory and other effects will worsen over time. Learn more about Alzheimer’s to better help your loved one in their time of need.
Plan To Have Support
Whether you will be caring for your loved one with Alzheimer’s or you’re just there for support, plan to have your own help to deal with what can be an emotionally trying time. Support can come in the form of hired care for your loved one, therapy, or a good conversation with a friend. Lean on friends and family for support during this time.
Plan When Traveling
When you and your loved one need to travel, be sure to plan for what they may need on the journey. There are many tips for long-distance travel with Alzheimer’s that can help you when the time comes to travel. Be prepared when taking a trip with your loved one.
Spend Time Together
An important way to let your loved one know that you care about what they’re going through is by being there for them as they come to terms with their diagnosis. Spend time with them as they go through the grief of accepting their Alzheimer’s. Being there is one of the best ways to show that you care.
Get Regular Medical Care
Making sure your loved one gets regular medical care is one of the most important things to do when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It’s the best way to care for them.
Be Patient
Adjusting to a new diagnosis can be hard, so be patient with your loved ones and yourself. Everyone will react differently to the news, so try your best to be understanding. Learn to be patient with your loved one when their memory starts to slip, and you will be ready for whatever comes your way.
Talk Regularly
One way to keep your loved one’s memory active is to engage them in conversation regularly. It can be hard when their memory starts to slip, but get them talking and start conversations that they can be a part of to keep their mind active.
