Talking to Your Family About Your Parent’s Alzheimer’s Disease

Your parent’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease does not just affect them. This disease affects your entire family and it is very important that you take the time from the beginning of their journey to help your family understand what your senior is facing and what it means so that together you can create an environment of care, support, and love that will guide your parent through this progression in the way that is best for them.

Elder Care in Water Mill NY: Alzheimer’s Disease Discussions

When discussing your parent’s Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis with your family, honesty is the most important tool you can use. This is a serious situation and one that needs to be approached as such. Trying to hide things or “sugarcoat” the circumstances will only confuse the situation and make it more difficult for your family to know what to expect and what they can do for your parent and for you. Be upfront and clear about the diagnosis and what your parent is going through, but also be respectful. Remember that this is your parent’s journey and that some of the issues may be sensitive in nature. While being honest, do not share unnecessary information with those who do not truly need to know,

How many times should discussions occur?

You will likely need to have several conversations when it comes to talking to your family about your parent’s Alzheimer’s disease. Talking to those who are close to you and most likely to give the most support and assistance will be different from talking to those who live at a distance and are only likely to interact with your parent occasionally. Plan each of these conversations to ensure you provide enough information and show the proper amount of respect.

Use this as an opportunity to create an elder care team…

During these conversations, remember that this is an opportunity for you. You are not just telling your family what your senior is going through. You can also be working toward building your care team and establishing the support, assistance, and nurturing that both of you will need. Talk about the help that you will need in caring for your parent and let your family offer their assistance. Even if you do not need that type of assistance now, knowing that they are willing to offer it can make a tremendous difference later in the progression.

How can elder care services help?

If you are caring for a senior adult who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, now may be the ideal time for you to consider starting elderly care for them. Whether they are just at the beginning of their journey and starting to show symptoms of the disease, or have progressed to a more advanced stage and are dealing with challenges and needs that are beyond what you feel that you can manage comfortably and effectively, an elderly home care services provider can help. This care provider can be there for your parent on a schedule that is right for them and their needs, as well as the care efforts that you are able to give them.

Through a highly personalized set of services this care provider can help your parent to manage their individual challenges, limitations, and needs in a way that is right for them while also preparing them for those that may develop as they progress further in the disease. For you, this can ease stress and help you to have more peace of mind while also allowing you to take care of the
other needs in your life, including yourself.

If you or an aging loved one is considering hiring elder care in Water Mill, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.