Over 6 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s today. In addition to the impact it has on the individual diagnosed with the disease’s life, it can put a huge strain on their family’s life. Local resources and support systems can make a huge difference to caregivers, which is why it’s so important to equip yourself with this information and the best resources to support you if you find yourself in this situation. Keep reading as we share some fantastic resources for anyone caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s in Northern Virginia.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive disease that destroys memory and other memory functions. The causes of this disease are very complex and not always easy to identify. Still, it’s typically believed to be due to an abnormal build-up of proteins in the brain cells, as well as genetics and age-related changes in the brain. The disease can last for more than a decade, and during this time, patients will go through various stages as the disease progresses. In the early stages, basic forgetfulness may appear before a diagnosis. From there, memory difficulties and memory loss start to become more of a challenge, resulting in decreased independence and the need for full-time care. In the later stages, severe symptoms occur, and patients can experience a lack of physical control.
This disease is known for being incredibly cruel and challenging for the family and loved ones of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The emotional and physical toll of not only caring for a family member but also seeing them change so much in front of you can be extremely difficult to handle without support. The most important thing is finding ways to look after yourself and people to lean on during the more challenging days so that you know you are never alone and can offer the best support possible to someone with Alzheimer’s.
Local Alzheimer’s Support Organizations in Northern Virginia
Many wonderful organizations in Northern Virginia work to support local families who are looking after someone with Alzheimer’s. These Northern Virginia non-profit organizations are just a couple of local resources we highly encourage you to get in touch with:
- Insight Memory Care Center (Fairfax, VA)
- Services offered include specialized day programs (daycare) and caregiver support resources designed to help make caring for your loved ones more manageable.
- Alzheimer’s Association – National Capital Area Chapter
- Services offered include support groups for caregivers, education programs to help those dealing with a recent diagnosis and the various stages of Alzheimer’s, and a helpline to call should you need more immediate support or someone to chat with.
Community Resources and Programs
Along with specific organizations supporting families of those with Alzheimer’s, you’ll find a variety of centers and community resources in Northern Virginia to help you through this challenging time. Local senior centers often offer activities and programs tailored to individuals with Alzheimer’s. These adult day care centers have many years of experience working with patients with Alzheimer’s and work to create varied and enjoyable programs to support memory loss and the other symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
Adult daycare centers can be a huge support for family members and friends who need a day off from caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. Insight Memory Care Center is a nonprofit organization that offers specialized care and support, whereas Agape Adult Day & Home Care or Prince William Adult Day Healthcare are good options for more general care. If you are still trying to balance looking after your family and working a full-time job, then these can offer you some time and space for yourself to carry on living your normal life to the best of your ability.
Paragon Home Care can provide transportation support to these programs in addition to respite and specialized care at home for your loved one.
Legal Resources
While you may focus first on health and well-being resources for your loved one and yourself, you should also consider working with a local elder law attorney for legal planning. Ensure you have a power of attorney put in place and look at estate planning as soon as possible. Try to deal with these legal matters while your loved one is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, where possible, so they can still communicate their desires and wishes for the later stages of their life.
Coping Strategies for Caregivers
When looking after an ill relative, it’s easy to neglect your health and well-being while prioritizing theirs. It’s so important that you find stress management techniques and ways to prevent burnout. Taking a day off occasionally or asking someone else to support you doesn’t mean you are weak. You have to think about the long-term impact this will have on your life and ensure you are still doing things that make you happy and distract you from this side of your life. We highly recommend joining a caregiver support group. You’ll connect with others facing similar challenges and find others to share your ideas and resources with. It’s important to remember you are not alone and have a strong support system to look after yourself.
Future Planning and Long-Term Care Options
As Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, you need to think about increased care in the future as the disease progresses. Many long-term care facilities in Northern Virginia offer memory care units and nursing homes specializing in Alzheimer’s care. Our sister-company, Paragon Assisted Living can provide high-level assisted living care in a residential, home environment.
About Paragon Home Care
Are you caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease in the Northern Virginia metro area? Contact our team at Paragon Home Care to learn more about our personal and companion care services or to request pricing on our professional home care services.