Alternative Information

As The Primary Care Giver for an Alzheimer's Patient, How Can I Get a Break?


Taking care of a loved one who has Alzheimer's is a huge responsibility and very time consuming. It can bring a lot of stress, frustration and more. You devote all your time to your loved one and not have time for yourself anymore. You always wonder: when can I take a break from her? It is not an easy decision, but sometimes it has to be made for your own well being.

There are different options to consider. If your loved one is in early/mid stages of Alzheimer's you can consider private duty home care. Many agencies throughout the nation and in your community provide this service. A list of providers can be obtained in the phone book, from the local Alzheimer's Association, Area Agency on Aging, or any case management and referral source. The private duty home care can include services like bathing, sitting, taking to appointments, shopping, meal preparation and other day-to-day essentials. This assistance will definitely help you in getting more free time.

You might also try adult day care. The centers usually operate from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm. It is a good environment for socialization. Your loved one will be able to interact with others, but she knows she will be back home for the night. If you decide to look for an adult day care, you will want to make sure the staff is experienced in caring for Alzheimer's patients.

Another solution is hiring an independent in-home care giver yourself. This person will take care of your loved one while you are away. You may be able to obtain names and information about experienced caregivers from places such as your church, Alzheimer's Association, Area Agency on Aging.

Make sure you check the references. Meet and talk with the prospective caregiver and see how the person interacts with your loved one. Touching is very important. It could be a pat on the back or gently rubbing the hand. You can even ask your loved one for input about the person. People with dementia are often perceptive and intuitive.

And don't forget! You have family members as well that can help you. A loved one who has Alzheimer's affects all family members. So if family members offer to help, take advantage of it.

Remember, help is available. Do not feel guilty because you want to take a break. You deserve it.

About The Author

William G. Hammond, JD is a nationally known elder law attorney and founder of The Alzheimer's Resource Center. He is a frequent guest on radio and television and has developed innovative solutions to guide families who have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's. For more information you can visit his website at www.BeatAlzheimers.com.


MORE RESOURCES:

Government rejects border fence alternative
Houston Chronicle, United States - 9 hours ago
AP Texas News By CHRISTOPHER SHERMAN AP Writer © 2008 The Associated Press McALLEN, Texas — The Department of Homeland Security denied Cameron County's ...
Government rejects Cameron County's border fence alternative KDBC
Government rejects border fence alternative Houston Chronicle
all 32 news articles


Alternative Energy Sources posts wider loss
Bizjournals.com, NC - 8 hours ago
Alternative Energy Sources Inc., which ceased operations in June, reported a loss of $3.17 million for the quarter that ended June 30. ...
Salamon Group, Inc. Announces Corporate Update MarketWatch
all 7 news articles


AltCar Expo, One of Nation's Largest Displays of Alternative Fuel ...
MarketWatch - 7 hours ago
... to test drive green cars at one of the nation's largest displays of alternative fuel vehicles, which will feature the first production Tesla Roadster. ...


Green Star Alternative Energy Announces Trading With New Symbol ...
MarketWatch - Aug 18, 2008
Green Star Alternative Energy's management is evaluating projects world wide that are designed to meet the global need for clean, environmentally friendly ...
Kerry Associates Inc.: W2 Energy Inc. Enters into Agreement with ... MarketWatch
all 22 news articles


Obama: Nevada may be a major source of alternative energy
Lahontan Valley News, NV - 56 minutes ago
Barack Obama, the presumptive Democratic candidate for president, said Nevada could be at the center for alternative energy sources in the future. ...


SoCal Edison, PG&E Make Big Alternative Energy Commitments
GreenBiz, CA - 8 hours ago
... have in the past week announced commitments for nearly two gigawatts of alternative energy, in the form of wind and solar power projects. ...


Joint survey for alternative road
The Statesman, India - 5 hours ago
“The NHPC authorities here requested me to be part of the team and make a recce of the area through which the alternative road may pass and I obliged'. ...


The Gazette (Montreal)

Selling alternative packaging
The Gazette (Montreal), Canada - 1 hour ago
Box wine sales are growing significantly: That was the headline of a recent AC Nielson study. Now, before all you classicists start to worry that your ...


Governor Rendell Nominates John Hanger for DEP Secretary; Appoints ...
MarketWatch - 7 hours ago
Hanger was an instrumental figure who helped to shape many of the state's prominent policy discussions while leading PennFuture, including the Alternative ...
Jan Jarrett Named PennFuture President and CEO as John Hanger ... Business Wire (press release)
Rendell names new DEP, PUC leaders Central Penn Business Journal
Rendell names two to key Pa. government posts Philadelphia Inquirer
all 39 news articles


Wall Street Journal

Trick or Treatment
Wall Street Journal - 21 hours ago
Usually, alternative medicine is a harmless distraction. And some treatments actually do offer benefits. But going outside modern medical practice also ...

Alternative - Google News

home | site map
© 2006