Preparation Pays Off

Be prepared: Plan ahead, plan ahead, plan ahead! Having a dementia care plan gives caregivers a sense of control. This plan includes: creating a resource file covering all services that may be necessary while travelling this journey, taking care of yourself, and preparing for *placement issues. Joining an Alzheimer’s support group will allow you to talk with other caregivers who are also experiencing the same challenges caused by dementia. This will help you find supportive community resources, and gain additional insight on what the future may bring.

*No one ever dreams of having to place a loved one in a facility, but in a life with Alzheimer’s, this is often a reality. Not only is the person with dementia aging, but the caregiver is aging as well, and being able to provide an increasing level of care over many years may not be possible. Planning ahead, visiting different facilities, and listening to other caregivers’ opinions will give the caregiver a greater sense of control when and if the time for placement should arise. Do not wait for a crisis to occur: develop a care plan for your loved one with an Alzheimer’s type dementia now.