Physicians’ Choice Private Duty helps lift the burden of caregiver stress

Physicians’ Choice Private Duty helps lift the burden of caregiver stress

Alzheimer’s or other dementia: Should I move my loved one into long-term care?

Maybe you have just learned about the devastating diagnosis or have been living with it for years. Regardless of the situation, caregiver burnout becomes a reality.

Your options

  • Care for your loved one at home. Some caregivers also may want to think about part-time care at home with a health aide or nurse or in an adult day care — to lessen the stress and burden of 24-hour-a-day care.
  • Move your relative into a nursing home or other long-term care facility.

Key points to remember

  • People with Alzheimer’s or other dementia need a safe, consistent, structured environment. You may be able to provide this at home. In other cases, long-term care in a center is an option.
  • People with dementia usually need more and more care as time goes by. At some point, your relative will most likely need constant 24-hour care — either in your home or at a long-term care center.
  • A care center may offer your loved one some people to talk to, as well as activities and outings. Social contacts may keep him or her active for as long as possible.
  • Caring at home for someone who has dementia takes a lot of time and work. It also costs money if you hire part-time help. Caring for a loved one at home also may take time away from other areas of your life. Every family has different needs and limits to think about.
  • By using adult day care programs and part-time help, you may be able to keep your loved one at home longer.
  • Remember that your own health, both physical and emotional, is as important as that of the person you’re caring for.
  • Deciding to move your relative into long-term care is not a sign of failure in your role as caregiver.
  • Any move, whether to a facility or even a stay at the hospital, will set back your loved one. Increasing memory loss and behavioral changes should be anticipated.

“Physicians’ Choice Private Duty Assisted Living solves the challenges families face in caring for aging parents, with a focus on strategies that keep them in their homes. To learn more about our solutions, visit http://www.private-duty.pchhc.com.”