Signs Your Loved One May Need Assistance

Serving as a caregiver to a loved one with Alzheimers disease or another form of dementia is a true labor of love, in which over 15 million Americans devote their time.

Caregiver stress is quite common, and its important to be able to recognize when you need a break, as well as when your loved one may require more care than you can provide. Caregivers must also take care of themselves to be effective in caring for someone else.

As Alzheimers disease and dementia progresses, it can become much more difficult for a caregiver to be the sole provider of a loved ones care. When certain signs arise, they can be an indication that its in the best interest of both patient and caregiver to start investigating assisted living care options.

• Sundowning (becoming agitated later in the day), wandering, and escalating aggression may occur as these conditions advance. Your loved ones increasing care needs may extend beyond your capabilities, or lead to an unsafe home environment. If these conditions arise, start looking into assisted living or other care options.
• Caregivers assume a huge amount of responsibility when caring for loved ones, being tasked with not only providing physical care, but being in charge of difficult decisions. The pressure of caring for someone with Alzheimers or dementia is immense, and can lead to caregiver stress, causing you to feel symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, anxiety, hypervigilance, and avoidance.
• Caregivers may not eat properly or get enough rest, leading to a decline in their own physical health. If caregiver stress is an issue, seeking other care arrangements may be the best option for everyone involved. Nursing home care may be a viable option to provide a well-needed break as you continue to care for a loved one while researching other care options, allowing you time to care for yourself as well.

The care of your elderly loved one is not something that should be ignored or overlooked. The personal injury lawyers in our Milwaukee office are ready to work for your family to get you the justice you deserve and the compensation that you need. For a free claim review, call 877-877-2228 or fill out an online contact form. A representative will get back to you as soon as possible.