Talking to Your Parent about the Possibility of Alzheimer’s Disease
Throughout the United States, there are nearly 6 million people who are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease.
This number is expected to continue to rise, with experts estimating there will be more than 14 million with the disease by the year 2050. If you are a family caregiver, it is likely that Alzheimer’s disease is something you think about frequently, especially if you have begun to notice changes in their function or abilities that make you wonder if they may have developed the disease. If you suspect your senior may be in the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease, it is important to talk to them about it. Expressing your concerns and starting to make plans now is a critical step in making sure your parent’s wishes are known, and that they get the level of care they need and deserve throughout their journey with the disease.
Home Health Care in Vienna VA: Possibility of Alzheimer’s Disease
Talking to a senior about the possibility of Alzheimer’s disease can be intimidating. It is important to approach the topic carefully, and plan for a conversation away from other distractions when you have plenty of time to focus on the issues at hand.
Use these tips to talk to your parent about the possibility of Alzheimer’s disease:
Be upfront and honest. Sugarcoating the issue, or trying to be “delicate” can only muddy the situation and make it more difficult to discuss. Be open with your parent, and encourage them to do the same.
Be clear and thorough when talking about your concerns and observations. Tell them what you’ve seen and experienced, and why you think these issues are troublesome. Give them concrete examples of times you’ve noticed behaviors or changes you think might indicate Alzheimer’s disease.
Be willing to talk about your emotions. Tell your parent how you feel and what you are going through, and express how important it is for you that they get the level of care and support they need if they do have Alzheimer’s disease. Encourage your senior to do the same.
Be prepared to talk about care. Don’t just talk about your parent possibly having this disease. Also, talk about what you can do about it. Talk about management plans, senior care, and more so your parent can feel confident and optimistic about their future.
Starting senior care for your aging parent can be one of the best decisions you make for them during the course of your caregiver experience with them. A senior home care services provider can be with your aging parent on a customized schedule to ensure they have continuous access to the level of support, assistance, and care they need. This means they can manage their challenges and limitations in the ways that are right for them, while also pursuing a lifestyle that is as safe, independent, and fulfilling as possible. As their family caregiver, it can give you a tremendous sense of peace of mind and confidence knowing that your senior has these highly personalized services when you are unable to be with them. This ensures the highest quality of life possible, while also relieving your stress, and allowing you to focus on other elements of your life.
Are you or a loved-one considering Home Health Care in Vienna, VA? Please call the caring staff at Medical Professionals On Call today. Contact: 703-273-8818
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Medical Professionals On Call has such a caring, professional staff who are available to step in with whatever level of care necessary for loved ones and to relieve you of that stress.
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