Progress is being made on the home front for those caring for family members suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia. Currently, about 61% of seniors with dementia in Canada live at home .
As the disease progresses it carries with it a tremendous burden, both physically and psychologically on the family members-usually the husband, wife or partner–who are doing the caregiving. That is why it is vital that the family access community support systems, such as local Alzheimer’s organizations, that can provide reassurance and support groups.
It is also important that family caregivers seek outside help if they feel they are becoming ill from the strain of caregiving as the disease progresses. The strain can easily become intolerable for spouses trying to cope all alone at home with an Alzheimer’s sufferer and they themselves can have a physical or mental breakdown.
There should be no shame or guilt in seeking respite care from a professional home care agency. People who are not trained professionals often find it a strain to be caregivers, and should not feel that this makes them a bad or unloving partner or child. By turning to outside resources, a family can delay having to place Alzheimer’s sufferers in a long-term-care facility and, instead, keep them in the comfort of their own home.
The Alzheimer’s Society of Canada has developed resources to support its goals related to dementia care professionals, including:
- Raise the level of professional care provided to individuals who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia;
- Support professionals as they support those in need by providing practical training;
- Set standards of excellence through the qualification programs;
- Offer networking and advocacy opportunities.
The Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, recognizes the special needs of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients and their families. Creating an Alzheimer’s- and dementia-friendly and safe environment is an important step in making it possible for people to remain at home much longer and further into the disease.
For more information contact:
Alzheimer Society of Canada
20 Eglinton Avenue West, 16th Floor
Toronto, Ontario M4R 1K8
Website: www.alzheimer.ca
Phone: 416-488-8772
Toll-free: 1-800-616-8816
Fax: 416-488-3778
Email: [email protected]
