Dad Has Alzheimer’s: What Do I Do Now?

Navigating through your dad’s Alzheimer’s journey can be difficult, especially because there are so many things to consider. Here is a guide leading you through the steps that you should take to ensure proper care for your dad.

Step 1: Educate Yourself About Alzheimer's Disease

It is not enough to acquire a basic knowledge of Alzheimer's disease. It is also very important to keep yourself updated about the latest developments in research and treatments. Interacting with online discussions and listening to webinars on Alzheimer's research presentations can give you a new understanding of new therapies and emerging studies. This will help you make the best choices for your dad's care. Here are the most recent updates on Alzheimer’s disease discovered in 2023. Other great resources discussing Alzheimer’s disease are the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's Association and Alzheimer’s Society.  

Step 2: Be Flexible About Your Plans

Be aware that Alzheimer's is not the same for everyone and that it is a progressive disease. It is important to be aware of the different stages of Alzheimer's so you can adapt the treatment plan to his current needs and behaviors. Be mindful and very observant of changes in behavior and consider them when shaping the care plan.

Step 3: Maintain a Good Relationship

As Alzheimer's continues to affect an individual, it becomes more difficult to get connected with them. Make sure to maintain a good relationship with the use of non-verbal communication strategies, like touch and smiles, because they could help you to show love and reassurance when speech cannot. Music or art therapy is also a great way to create emotional bonds since it is calming and soothing for both of you.

Step 4: Create a Support Network

Besides personal and professional support, many other tools and resources are available to families dealing with Alzheimer’s. Organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association offer the option to join local support groups, 24/7 helplines and online communities, where people can meet, share experiences and offer advice to those who are in a similar situation. Taking breaks from offering care is important too, so think about getting help from care services when you need it.

Step 5: Legal and Financial Decision-making

It is important to discuss legal and financial matters early on for the disease, to ensure that the wishes of your dad are respected. Discuss the power of attorney and health care proxy and have a conversation about living wills. Some lawyers who specialize in elder care can help you make this process easier.

Step 6: Increase Safety With Technology and Modifications

Apply safety gadgets to change the quality of the patient’s life. Small precautions, like taking rugs away or putting safety locks in can turn the home into a safer place. Technologies such as GPS trackers or home monitoring systems can provide safety in some scenarios, where your dad gets lost or agitated and walks away.

Including these extra steps into your dad's care plan could be a major influence on improving his treatment for Alzheimer's disease. By being informed, seeking support, and having a clear plan ahead, you will be able to handle the troubles of Alzheimer's disease with strength and kindness and take care of your dad better.