When you find out that your aging parent is living with Alzheimer’s disease, it is easy to find yourself overwhelmed with the realities of the progression of this disease, and determined to take on as many responsibilities as possible to ensure that your parent’s needs are met. While it is important to ensure that your loved one gets all of the care, support, and assistance necessary during their progression with Alzheimer’s disease, it is also important that you do not lose sight of the importance of their independence and autonomy as well. This is especially important during the early stage of the disease when the symptoms are mild and their independent functioning is at its highest.

Use these tips to ensure that you are not caring for your parent too much in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease:

Assume they can do it first. Rather than automatically thinking that your parent is going to need help with every task that they encounter, assume first that they will be able to fulfill a need or handle a task. This gives your parent both the opportunity and the confidence to handle more things for themselves and maintain as much of their independence as possible.
Ensure their safety above everything. Before establishing any other care routines, make sure that your parent is safe. Take the time to go through their home and identify hazards, and take steps to reduce or eliminate those hazards so your parent is more secure in their home.
Create a subtle signal. When your parent does need help with something, they may feel awkward or embarrassed asking, especially if they are in public or around others. Create a signal with them that they can use to tell you that they need help so that you can discreetly step in and give them that help without calling too much attention to the situation.
Let them be your guide. Don’t be afraid to talk to your parent about the situation and about their needs. Let them guide you in understanding what they are going through and in preparing for the care that you give them. Ask them what they need and how they feel about getting care from you and from a home care provider, and use the information they give you to create a care routine that works for both of you.

Starting home care for your elderly parent can be one of the best decisions that you make for them. As their family caregiver, you are responsible for helping them to live the highest quality of life possible throughout their later years, and an in-home senior care services provider can help you accomplish that goal. Through a highly personalized set of services, this care provider can step in to supplement the care that you already give your parent, filling care gaps, providing transportation, and just being there to act as a companion and source of mental and emotional support. This can ensure that your parent’s needs are met in the way that is right for them, while also helping them to stay healthy, safe, comfortable, and as fulfilled and independent as possible as they age in place.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Durham, NC or the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at HomeChoice Home Care Solutions. Call today (919) 847-5622

Sources: https://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-early-mild-stage-caregiving.asp