Caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be a time-consuming and emotionally draining process at times, although it’s often balanced with moments that are truly appreciated and cherished. Because of the up-and-down nature of dementia-related care, it’s important to have a reliable network of social support. Continue reading to discover why this type of support is something dementia caregivers need.
It’s Not Easy Watching Dementia Progress
It’s only natural to have an image of an aging loved one, especially a parent, as someone who’s strong, independent, and in control. However, dementia is often progressive, and it can cause changes in behaviour, daily capabilities, and mood. Social support can help you handle watching your loved one’s dementia progress by:
- Giving you access to emotional support
- Helping you find ways to enjoy pleasant things in life as you provide care
- Allowing you to not constantly dwell on your loved one’s condition
Caring for your loved one with dementia can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Social Support Can Help Caregivers Maintain a Sense of Self-Worth
By having a strong social support system, you’ll be able to retain a sense of self. This can be beneficial if your loved one has reached a stage where he or she is combative and verbally abusive or not making you feel appreciated. Having a strong social support system can help you put things in perspective and maintain your own identity and sense of worth.
Seniors with Dementia May No Longer Be Able to Offer Emotional Support
Even though you may have relied on your loved one for emotional support for most of your life, he or she may no longer be capable of fulfilling this role as dementia advances. Without social support, losing your emotional rock may make you feel lonely, isolated, or vulnerable. While there’s no true substitute for the kind of love and support a parent or close loved one can give, supportive friends and family members can fill this void as much as possible.
The responsibilities associated with caring for a loved one with dementia can sometimes feel overwhelming, but help is available. Families looking for top-rated Barrie at-home care providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
Social Support Is Good for Physical & Mental Health
While being wrapped up in the process of daily caregiving, you may not realize how you’re being affected physically or mentally. By having a strong social support system in place, you’ll have a better idea of when you need to make some adjustments for your own good. For instance, a trusted friend might encourage you to consider in-home respite care so you can take better care of your own health needs and have time to refresh mentally.
Having Sufficient Social Support Wards Off Depression
According to Family Caregiver Alliance, a survey of Alzheimer’s caregivers found approximately 40 percent of these caregivers experienced mild to severe depression. Without social support, which can also include professional therapy as well as online and local support groups, you may find yourself feeling hopeless or depressed.
Social support can give you something to look forward to when it involves friends. With caregiver support groups, you can freely discuss your frustrations and concerns with others who know exactly what you’re going through, and you may even get some practical tips for handling the challenges of dementia care more effectively.
Caring for seniors with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers. Luckily, there is dementia care Barrie families can rely on. Professional dementia caregivers help seniors with dementia stay safe and comfortable at home by preventing wandering, providing cognitive stimulation, and assisting with household chores. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 647-970-3803.