In Conversation with Daneika Farmer to Bring Her Insights on Alzheimer Support
Supporting elderly individuals with Alzheimer’s is a crucial undertaking requiring compassion, knowledge, and adaptability. Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, cognition, and behavior, posing unique challenges for individuals and caregivers alike. To enhance the well-being and quality of life of those with Alzheimer’s, it is essential to develop effective strategies and approaches.
Caregivers are vital in providing physical assistance, emotional support, and a safe environment for individuals with Alzheimer’s. A person-centered approach tailored to individual needs fosters dignity, autonomy, and connection. Educating oneself about Alzheimer’s disease and its progression equips caregivers to anticipate challenges, manage behaviors, and make informed decisions.
Patience, adaptability, and empathy are key qualities for caregivers. Patience allows for understanding and reassurance during repetitive questioning or confusion. Adaptability helps caregivers modify approaches as needs change. Empathy enables caregivers to acknowledge the emotional impact of the disease and provide comfort.
Practical caregiving tips, communication strategies, and a safe environment empower caregivers with knowledge and skills to enhance care quality and foster a compassionate environment for those affected by Alzheimer’s.
To shed some light on the same, we interviewed a home care industry expert to bring her perspective on the necessity of caregivers supporting the elderly with Alzheimer’s.
Daneika grew up in Bowling Green, Ky., and helped her mother look after her three younger siblings and then had a 24/7 daycare center. She watched and helped her grandmother at a young age care for the elderly.
She believes caring for others is in her DNA and has been caring for people with all conditions since 2004.
Let’s get started with knowing what our expert thinks of the home care industry:
Question 1: What, in your opinion, can caregivers do to support seniors with Alzheimer’s?
Caregivers can learn to be more patient and ready to adapt to any changes the senior is having.
Question 2: Do Alzheimer’s patients need to make lifestyle changes to minimize the impact?
Exercising, eating healthy, spending time with loved ones, and doing activities that bring them joy are very important.
Question 3: How should family members and caregivers communicate with Alzheimer’s patients?
Communication will become short and simple as the days/months/years go by—one step at a time. Using pictures with words can help with communication too.
Question 4: Do caregivers and family members need to take certain steps to make the elderly’s house Alzheimer-friendly?
Yes, make sure to declutter their living space as much as possible. Rugs and mats are a fall hazard. I would have an extra layer of safety control on appliances and doors/gates/fences. Leave helpful notes or hang up a dry-erase board with family names and numbers. Having a big digital clock with the day’s information is helpful.
Question 5: What advice do you give to caregivers dealing with Alzheimer’s older adults?
Listen to them. Be intentional with providing care or assistance. Be gentle. Watch your tone and how you sound. Always explain what needs to happen next. Never correct them; go where they are, and you will notice the difference for the better. Learn how to improve!! Share the love and be engaging!
In the End
Supporting caregivers with Alzheimer’s is crucial for the well-being of caregivers and individuals with the disease. Caregivers face numerous challenges, including emotional strain, practical demands, and financial burdens.
By recognizing and addressing the needs of caregivers, we can enhance their ability to provide compassionate care and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families.
