Simply put, caring for a friend or family member with dementia is hard, emotionally and logistically as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s part of why we\u2019ve been seeing an increase in programs to help seniors stave off the onset of dementia or manage symptoms once they arise and provide aid to family caregivers as well. You don\u2019t have to navigate dementia care on your own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are our favorite resources to address the top factors for dementia symptoms, get assistance providing dementia care and find time to care for yourself while caring for others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The top three factors that can help with Alzheimer\u2019s and dementia symptoms are nutrition, exercise and socialization. Ensuring your friend or family member eats balanced meals, exercises regularly and stays engaged in social activities is key. Here\u2019s how to do it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Preparing healthy meals is exactly the kind of complicated multi-step process that seniors with dementia often struggle with most, so it\u2019s not surprising that many of them have trouble eating enough or sticking to dietary restrictions. Here are some good ways to help:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regular exercise<\/a> is one of the best ways to delay the onset of dementia and manage existing symptoms. If your loved one is mobile enough, one great way for them to do that is to simply take a walk outside. Not only has going outside<\/a> been shown to boost mental health, it also gives them opportunities to see and connect with their neighbors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if your loved one\u2019s mobility is good, it\u2019s important to have an indoor exercise option for bad-weather days. One of our favorite senior fitness programs in the area is Ageless Grace<\/a>, which specializes in exercise that isn\u2019t just good for the body, but for the mind as well. Ageless Grace classes engage seniors\u2019 brains during exercise in a playful setting, keeping class fun and enjoyable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dementia tends to worsen when seniors spend a lot of time alone and disengaged, which is why an active social life<\/a> is so important. Family board game nights are a great way to strengthen those bonds while also giving your loved one a mental workout. If you live far away from them, you can still play games together on websites like Board Game Arena<\/a> (Ken and Mary Ellen particularly recommend Wingspan, a beautifully illustrated game about birds). <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s also important for seniors with dementia to stay connected with their friends. Fortunately, community centers like the Charlotte JCC<\/a> make that easy by scheduling dozens of fun activities and get-togethers each month. Just make sure to give your loved one gentle reminders when they\u2019ve planned to go out\u2014they may not always remember on their own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While the resources above can help, family caregivers of seniors with dementia need support as well. These are a few great places to start:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Caregiver support groups might sound nice in theory, but they require regular free time during the day\u2014and if you\u2019re caring for a senior with dementia, that might not be time you actually have. <\/p>\n\n\n\n That\u2019s why the Alzheimer\u2019s Association<\/a> runs a 24\/7 helpline that you can call for direct assistance from real, trained people who know what you\u2019re dealing with and are there to provide solution-focused guidance and assistance. They\u2019ll show you techniques and connect you with resources to help care for your loved one\u2014and yourself as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Being a family caregiver is an enormous commitment, and sometimes you need time off to focus on other parts of your life. That\u2019s when it\u2019s time to look into respite care<\/a>: temporary assistance from a professional caregiver who will care for your loved one with the same attentiveness that you would.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s the good news: The Medicare GUIDE Program<\/a> entitles family caregivers of seniors with dementia 80 hours of free respite care. Here\u2019s how to use it.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hotlines and support groups are helpful, but often what family caregivers really need is scheduled time when you know your friend or family member with dementia is in reliable, caring hands so you can focus on everything else life throws at you.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMaintain Connections<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Dementia Care Resources for Caregivers <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Find 24\/7 Assistance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Get Financial Assistance With Respite Care<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Get Dementia Care Assistance in Charlotte, NC<\/h2>\n\n\n\n