Saturday, April 1, 2017

Guest Post: Alzheimer's Disease Checklist for Caregivers

By Leandro Mueller
FreeMedSuppQuotes.com


Caregivers watching over individuals living with Alzheimer’s Disease need to take into consideration certain aspects of this form of dementia. The progressive march of Alzheimer’s can result in a devastating and emotional burden for caregivers and their families. As such, a checklist of common Alzheimer’s symptoms may prove handy for the potentially long journey.

More on the Memory Loss
Typical memory loss associated with aging involves forgetting names or remembering to stick to a routine or schedule. However, with Alzheimer’s Disease, information recently learned by an individual may seem akin to a blur. Consistent assistance is typically needed for the care recipient to maintain quality of life and mobility.

These types of assistance range from the daily tasks of money management, cooking and driving to bathing and eating. A disassociation on time and location may also be observed with persons living with Alzheimer’s. Loved ones often forget where they are, what time it is, or even what day of the week it is. The distant past can become the present in a flash. 

Severing Connections
The loss of memory caused by Alzheimer’s may result in withdrawal from social relationships, as well. Both work and personal connections may be at risk, which further isolates the individual from reaching out. Mood swings and abrupt changes in personality are not uncommon, either.

What Caregivers Can Do to Help Cope with Dementia
Caregivers can be all too aware of just how much they are needed, once the extent of their loved one’s memory loss becomes apparent. Emotions can be particularly impacted. In the blink of an eye, the stress of caregiving can change the dynamic with partners or even complete strangers. Everyday tasks can become infinitely more difficult. The key to looking after a dementia-afflicted individual is love, and, of course, preparation.

Creating steps toward a safer living environment for the care recipient should be one of the top priorities. Caregivers should consider rearranging the furniture for maximum safety in the home and keeping care essentials at arm’s reach. Arrange installation of safety fixtures wherever possible, such as rubber matting in the shower, to help prevent injuries from occurring.

Additionally, caregivers and receivers alike should take the time to talk about insurance policies to cover health and financial needs during the years ahead. One particular plan worth considering is a Medigap policy, to help pay for out-of-pocket costs not covered by original Medicare plans. Opting for this type of plan can mean one less worry for the caregiver, allowing him or her to focus more fully on their loved one.

Please let us know below if you have other suggestions.

As the Online Content Director of FreeMedSuppQuotes.com, Leandro Mueller aims to push for awareness and promotion of the many benefits of Medigap insurance plans in the market. He hopes that his work will help boomers and retirement industry experts alike in their lives.

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