Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s and Dementia: A Family Caregiver’s Guide
Taking care of a family member with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be one of life’s most profound — and most challenging — experiences. You may experience mental breakdowns, despair, disruptions in your daily life, and even financial strain. Finding help often feels cumbersome and confusing.
There are countless organizations, online groups, and community programs promising to help or offer advice. While this abundance of information can be comforting, it can also be overwhelming. You may find yourself wondering:
- Where do I start?
- What help do I really need?
- How can I afford the care?
- How do I manage multiple responsibilities — my home, my family, my job?
- What if I must quit my job to take care of my loved one?
- How do I address daily challenges related to hygiene, behavior, and routines?
The truth is, there is not one answer that fits all. Every situation is unique. But there are guiding steps and resources that can make this journey more manageable, compassionate, and sustainable.
- Where Do I Start?
Begin by getting a proper diagnosis and care plan. Understanding whether your loved one has Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia helps you plan to care more effectively.
- Schedule a comprehensive evaluation with a neurologist or geriatric specialist.
- Ask for a referral to a social worker or case manager to help navigate resources.
- Contact your local Area Agency on Aging — they can connect you to adult day programs, respite care, and support groups.
At Evergreen Nursing Health, we recommend keeping a “Care Binder” that includes:
- Medical records and medication lists
- Emergency contacts
- A daily care schedule
- Legal and financial documents (such as Power of Attorney and Advance Directives)
- What Help Do I Need?
Your needs will evolve as the disease progresses. Start by identifying which areas you need help with the most:
- Personal Care: bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting
- Companionship & Safety Monitoring: to prevent wandering or falls.
- Meal Preparation & Medication Reminders
- Transportation & Errands
- Respite Care: short-term relief for family caregivers.
Hiring a trained home care professional through a licensed agency like Evergreen Nursing Health can ensure your loved one receives skilled, compassionate care while you regain balance and rest.
- How Can I Afford Care?
Caregiving costs can be significant, but there are several options to explore:
- Long-Term Care Insurance: check existing policies for coverage of in-home services.
- Veterans Benefits: programs like Aid and Attendance can support qualifying veterans and spouses.
- Medicaid Waiver Programs: available in many states to assist with home care costs.
- Family Resource Sharing: Some families pool funds or rotate caregiving responsibilities.
- Tax Deductions: caregiving expenses may qualify under dependent care or medical expense deductions.
A care manager or Elder Law attorney can help you navigate financial planning while protecting assets.
- How Do I Manage Multiple Households and Responsibilities?
Balancing work, children, and caregiving can lead to burnout. To reduce overwhelm:
- Create a family care calendar to delegate tasks among siblings or relatives.
- Use care coordination apps (like CareZone or Lotsa Helping Hands) to stay organized.
- Build a support network — even a short weekly break can help you recharge.
- Set realistic expectations — perfection is impossible, but consistency is powerful.
Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is not selfish — it is essential.
- What If I Need to Quit My Job?
Many caregivers face this dilemma. Before making that decision:
- Explore Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protections.
- Talk to your employer about flexible schedules or remote work options.
- Seek respite care or part-time home care support to maintain income stability.
- Look into compensated family caregiver programs available through Medicaid or VA benefits.
At Evergreen, we encourage families to plan ahead financially and emotionally. The more proactive you are, the less reactive you will need to be.
- How Do I Manage Hygiene, Behavior, and Daily Routines?
Dementia affects not only memory but also personality and behavior. Daily care can be emotionally taxing, but structure and compassion help.
Tips:
- Keep routines simple and consistent — same time for meals, bathing, and bedtime.
- Use short, clear sentences when communicating.
- Offer choices to preserve dignity: “Would you like to wear the blue shirt or the green one?”
- Play music from their past — familiar tunes can calm anxiety and spark joy.
- Use positive reinforcement, not correction — redirect rather than argue.
When hygiene becomes a challenge, involve a trained caregiver who knows how to maintain comfort, safety, and respect.
Final Thoughts
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia is not a single act — it is a journey. Some days will test your patience, while others will reveal moments of deep love and connection.
You are not alone. Evergreen Nursing Health stands beside you with compassionate, nurse-led home care and caregiver support. Whether you need a few hours of respite or comprehensive care management, we are here to help you and your loved one thrive safely at home.
Diana Nelsen, RN BSN
Are you looking to secure either of these services? Schedule a free consultation with our expert nurses today!
