Alzheimer’s support – you’re not alone
It’s estimated that every 67 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s Disease.
The disease not only affects the person living with it – but their family too.
Joel Kroft, the Executive Director of Memory Support Services at Country Meadows Retirement Communities explains, “One of the hardest things with our families is when they come in and loved one can’t really communicate anymore. We have this routine with our parents and grandparents – we say this is work, family – the kids. When they find they can’t participate – they’re devastated and don’t know how to have a visit.”
While Kroft says time with your loved one will likely change – it can still be meaningful. He says there are many activities which will allow you to enjoy your loved ones company like, painting, cooking and baking familiar foods, gardening, arranging flowers, listening to music and caring for pets.
“Any of these things – the activity becomes the focus and allows you to connect with your loved one – without the pressure of what am I going to say next.”
And while you’ll want to focus all of your energy on your loved one who is living with dementia – Joel Kroft says it’s important to take time for yourself – which is why Country Meadows offers free monthly support for caregivers in the community.
“We partner with the Alzheimer’s Association to create support groups at all of our campuses – not only is this disease process hard on the person that has it – it’s devastating to those family members too. One of the most important things they need to know is they’re not alone.”