Caregiving is a difficult, lonely job. You will need help! There are many resources for the dementia caregiver that can prove to be invaluable.
The Public Libary
Using the public library we were able to find information on community resources, books on the various aspects of caregiving, books and information on the topics of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, books, magazines and DVDs to entertain us during those long days sitting beside a hospital bed and a quiet refuge where we could just relax for a few minutes.
The Internet
Of course, when we were the ones in charge of staying with Mom it was difficult to leave the house so an Internet connection was invaluable. There is a vast amount of information about every topic imaginable on the Internet. We could check everything from possible drug interactions to our bank account balances. [Of course, as with any source, verify that the information is accurate before acting on any medical, legal, or financial advice.]
Primary Care Physician
A good relationship with our Mom’s primary care physician was a very important resource. The ability to talk to her concerning our Mom’s symptoms, treatments, and possible courses to take was so helpful. Alzheimer’s can be a scary disease. Having an advocate in the health care field helped us make more informed decisions.
An Attorney
Access to a good lawyer was incredibly helpful. We were constantly calling the firm with questions about Powers of Attorney, how to handle billing issues, the legalities of estate planning and so much more. Of course hiring an attorney may be out of your budget. If so, look for government programs that may be able to meet your needs.
Powers of Attorney and Other Legal Documents
Before Mom got too bad we had the wisdom to get the legal necessities in order. We had an attorney draw up a General Durable Power of Attorney, a Medical Power of Attorney, a Last Will and Testament, an Advance Directive and a Living Will. These documents saved us from many headaches. Knowing Mom’s wishes and having the legal clout to back up our decisions made making difficult choices easier to do.
A Support Group
We were blessed to have lots of family and friends to encourage us and listen to us when we needed them. Support can also be found in a group of Dementia Caregivers that either meets online or in person. Find such a support system. You can’t do this alone!
There are also many things that we were not able to use, but that would have been just as valuable as those listed above. We will investigate those possibilities and tell you about them in the future.
