National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and Family Caregivers Month
5 Dec 2019Today, over 5.7 million individuals have been impacted by Alzheimer’s and presently there are more than 16.1 million caregivers to Alzheimer’s patients in the U.S., based on recent statistics by the Alzheimer’s Association. National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and National Family Caregivers Month happens annually in November. That month is dedicated to the awareness of the disease and to honor the caregivers who are there for people with Alzheimer’s, and more.
But the awareness goes beyond the month of November. Some ways that you can become involved with the cause during the year include.
- Prepare for Future Challenges
The more you learn about this disease and how it progresses over the years, the more you’ll understand about it and the better able you’ll be able to:
- Reduce your frustration
- Prepare for challenges in the future
- Foster reasonable expectations
For instance, during the early stages of your loved one’s Alzheimer’s, you can support their self-care and independence, but their physical and cognitive regression will mean they’ll ultimately need 24-hour care. While it might be difficult to contemplate such a hard outlook, the sooner you establish some plans, the more you can involve your loved one in the decision-making process.
Access the Virtual Library From the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association provides an online Green-Field Virtual Library where you’ll find a catalog including a large number of different topics specific to Alzheimer’s and gerontology (scientific study of the aging process, old age and issues of old people), including e-books such as:
- Senior health
- Caregiving
- Neurologic disorders
- Death and dying
You’ll also find the latest Alzheimer’s tools and recommendations like:
- Personal narratives
- Dementia and Activities
- Younger onset Alzheimer’s disease
- Support groups
- Early-stage Alzheimer’s disease
- Primary care
To access any of the resources above, visit the Green-Field Library Resource List.
- Ask for Help
You can’t do it all by yourself. It’s essential you involve as friends, family members, or volunteer organizations if possible to help you with the day-to-day burden of caregiving. You should accept the help for mundane tasks like cleaning and grocery shopping which can free you up more quality time for your loved one.
Join a Support Group
Support groups will provide you with the opportunity of learning from other’s experiences who have faced the same challenges. When you can connect with others who know first-hand what it is you’re dealing with, it can help decrease feelings of:
- Fear
- Isolation
- Hopelessness
- Use GPS Tracking Technology
For seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease that makes them prone to wandering, it can help to get a GPS tracker for the elderly. These devices can help you keep track of your senior loved one and know when they’re out which can help ensure their safety. They’re specifically made for seniors with an emphasis on functions that improve safety like panic buttons and emergency buttons.
A GPS tracking device can offer you peace of mind letting you know you can locate your loved one quickly if they should wander or become lost. Being able to locate your loved one if they’ve gone missing can help save their life.
If you’re a caregiver for someone with dementia or Alzheimers, reach out to us at LiveViewGPS to learn more about our GPS tracking solutions. 1-888-544-0494
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