When it comes to caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, many family caregivers don’t know where to turn for support. The physical exhaustion and emotional strain that results from ongoing care of a loved one can take a toll on your body, mind, and your relationships. But, you’re not alone. There are several resources such as support groups, technology, and respite care that can provide information and guidance for effective, affordable dementia care. Here are some options and resources to help family caregivers find Alzheimer’s support and care for a loved one.
Who Can Help with Alzheimer’s?
- Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs), the Administration on Community Living (ACL), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and the Veterans Health Administration each offer special programs and support that can streamline access to long-term services for older adults and their families. While some of these programs have qualification criteria, it’s important to investigate what they offer to see if you might be able to take advantage of their services. A great place to start is with your local county health department, who can let you know what is available and who to contact in your county for support.
- The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging coordinates and provides services that help older adults remain in their homes, such as home-delivered meals and home assistance.
- The Eldercare Locator is a national service of the U.S. Administration on Aging that connects older adults with trustworthy local support resources, including meals, home care, or transportation. They also provide much-needed support for caregivers who need training, education, or a well-deserved break from caregiving responsibilities.
- The Community Resource Finder is available through a partnership with the Alzheimer's Association and AARP. The resource provides access to community programs and services. The Alzheimer’s Association has local chapters across the country where you can receive assistance and guidance, and most notably, they have a variety of support groups and educational opportunities for caregivers, families, and patients. AARP’s website is a great source for information about Alzheimer’s and caregiving and has information about navigating care choices as well as handling issues like caregiver stress.
- State Health Insurance Assistance Program provides Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers with information, counseling, and enrollment assistance.
- Your local county-sponsored multipurpose senior center coordinates services for older adults such as meals, education, health screenings, exercise/health promotion programs, and transportation. They can be helpful for older adults who are caring for a spouse.
- Your local church or synagogue may provide helpful services and assistance.
- Your loved one’s healthcare team or local hospital may be able to connect you with local services and support.
Even though it may feel like it, you are not alone – reach out for the help you need!
Exploring In-Home Care for Dementia
In-home care can be a solution for early-, middle- and late-stage dementia care. BrightStar Connections is our unique approach to Alzheimer's and dementia care. The lives of our clients are enriched by person-centered care that preserves dignity, provides helpful assistance, and promotes activity in a setting that is comfortable and familiar — their home. Our mission goes beyond just personal safety and care. We understand the importance of establishing and maintaining meaningful connections for your loved one.
We provide a range of services tailored to the specific needs of those living with dementia and their families, including:
- Full support service: Our caregivers provide personal, companion, and specialized home care for dementia patients, including transportation and light housekeeping. In addition, our nurses can provide skilled care and medication management as needed.
- Hourly, live-in, and 24/7 care: We can provide care for just a few hours a day, round-the-clock support with a live-in provider, or care all day, every day if your loved one requires overnight care.
- Respite care: Are you caring for a loved one and need a break? We can provide care so you can have an evening, a full day, a weekend, or even a week or more to recharge and refresh.
- Transitional Care: We provide specialized planning and transportation to ensure a safe transition from the home or current care setting to a new residence.
While there are some commonalities in all dementia and Alzheimer’s cases, each person’s experience is unique. We’ll create a customized care plan based on your loved one’s needs to make sure they receive the compassionate care and support they need. Person-centered care offers your loved one the opportunity to receive care with compassion and dignity. For our clients with Alzheimer’s, personalized care from the comfort of home can help enhance their quality of life and reduce anxiety of unfamiliar spaces.
A BrightStar Care registered nurse oversees the care and provides education and support for not only the care team but the client and family as well. Call BrightStar Care® today at 866-618-7827 to learn more about our specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia home care services, or find a location near you.
Technology and Tools for Dementia Caregivers
Technology has created many opportunities to help those caring for a loved one with dementia to understand their condition and connect with others in similar situations.
There are several apps, online communities and digital alert tools that can support a wide range of activities, including medication reminders, help managing appointments with specialists, community support and monitoring locations to prevent wandering.
There are also apps that can connect caregivers with local resources, helping to build a stronger support network. We recommend exploring apps and tools to see which ones most appeal to you. Read reviews to get a better understanding of their usability and features.
How to Create a Safe Home Environment
When clients with Alzheimer’s choose to age in place, one of the most important steps to take is to ensure that their home environment is safe, taking into consideration the complications of this progressive disease.
Some common home modifications include installing grab bars in the bathroom and shower, modifying stairs with ramps, and removing any tripping hazards throughout the home. Proactively taking measures to make their environment safer can help your loved one stay as independent as possible, for as long as possible. Your BrightStar Care® team can provide assistance in assessing home safety, as well as suggesting modifications.
Alzheimer's Resources for Caregivers
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia can sometimes take a toll on the well-being of family caregivers. As the saying goes, “you can’t drink from an empty cup.” It’s important that family caregivers prioritize their mental and physical health on equal footing with the health of their loved ones.
BrightStar Care® offers a variety of resources to family caregivers, including respite care and support services. Our team can help connect you with support groups, webinars and more to help you recharge.
Embracing Support and Taking Action
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging, but support is available. Family caregivers aren’t alone. There are many families in similar situations – and with BrightStar Care, you’ll find a supportive team that is able to help your family and loved one throughout their journey.
There are many services and resources available to assist with both practical and emotional aspects of caregiving. Our team is here to help you navigate these aspects, ranging from care options, managing home safety, connecting you with support networks and educational resources, and recommending vetted tools and technology to lighten the load of caring for a person with Alzheimer’s.
Bringing in part-time, full-time, or around the clock care can transform your loved one’s overall well-being and ensure they receive the care they deserve. Or, right now, maybe electing occasional respite care can provide your family with the solution you need right now.
Whether you’re starting to explore in-home care options or have decided that your loved one needs additional support right now, we’re here to help. Contact us and our team will be happy to answer any questions you have and how we can help your loved one get the care they need.