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Dementia Caregiving: Finding the Support You Need

Caring for a loved one with dementia is one of the most meaningful roles you can have — but it can also be exhausting and overwhelming. You’re managing daily routines, medical appointments, therapy and emotional ups and downs, all while trying to take care of yourself. You don’t have to do this alone.

Dementia Caregiving Can Present Challenges

Dementia caregiving comes with unique physical, emotional and logistical challenges.

Daily care demands: Assisting with bathing, dressing, meals and personal hygiene can be physically tiring and emotionally stressful, especially as your loved one’s needs change over time.
Emotional strain: Watching a loved one experience memory loss or personality changes can lead to stress, sadness, frustration or even guilt. Recognizing these feelings and seeking support is vital.
Healthcare coordination: Managing medications, doctor’s appointments, therapies and insurance paperwork can feel overwhelming. Without support, this burden can leave little time for yourself.

Practical Support for Caregivers

Even small actions can make a big difference in your day-to-day life. Here are several practical ways to care for yourself while supporting your loved one:

Take regular breaks: Even 30 minutes of quiet time, a short walk or a cup of coffee can help you recharge. Consider scheduling weekly respite to maintain balance.
Use checklists and routines: Organizing daily tasks and medical appointments can reduce stress and help you stay on top of care needs.
Create a support network: Lean on family, friends, neighbors or faith communities for practical help or emotional support.
Join caregiver support groups: Online or in-person groups can provide guidance, validation and connection with others facing similar challenges.
Set realistic goals: Focus on small, achievable steps each day rather than trying to do everything perfectly.
Prioritize your health: Eat well, stay active and get adequate rest — your wellbeing is essential for effective caregiving.
Use technology wisely: Apps for medication reminders, scheduling or tracking symptoms can make caregiving more manageable.
Encourage independence when possible: Allow your loved one to participate in daily tasks they can still do safely to help preserve their skills and dignity.
Keep a calm environment: Reduce clutter, use gentle lighting and maintain familiar routines to minimize confusion and agitation.
Ask for professional guidance: Nurses, therapists and social workers can provide strategies for managing challenging behaviors, mobility or daily routines.

Resources You Can Turn To

Caregivers don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Trusted resources include:

Alzheimer’s Association: Support groups, educational webinars and a 24/7 helpline.
Family Caregiver Alliance: Online workshops, guides and local programs for family caregivers.
Community programs: Local senior centers, nonprofits and faith-based organizations often provide respite care, adult day programs and counseling.

How Elara Caring Can Support You

Elara Caring provides a full spectrum of services to support both your loved one and you, the caregiver:

Skilled Home Health: Skilled nurses and therapists provide in-home care, including medication management, physical, occupational and speech therapy, wound care and chronic disease management. Our Meaningful Care program offers practical advice, support and resources to help caregivers navigate the complexities of dementia care.
Personal Care Services: Compassionate caregivers assist with personal care, medication reminders, meal preparation, companionship and more — all in the comfort of home.
Hospice Care: When it’s time for end-of-life care, our hospice team offers compassionate care focused on comfort, dignity and emotional support for both patients and families. Our Thoughtful Care hospice program offers caregivers guidance and resources to navigate and manage the unique end-of-life care needs and behaviors of patients with dementia.
Flexible, 24/7 support: Whether short-term or ongoing, our services are designed to provide relief, reassurance and guidance whenever you need it.