Convincing A Loved One with Alzheimer’s that They Need Extra Help
Alzheimer’s disease robs its victims of their memories and essentially hijacks their ability to make decisions for themselves. As horrible as is must be for the person diagnosed with the condition, it’s very difficult for the family, as well. Families are often torn apart as the disease progresses; it must be unbearable to watch your loved one slip away.
Those suffering with Alzheimer’s disease will need round-the-clock care at some point. You want to be the primary caregiver. After all, this is a person you’ve loved your whole life. You would do anything for them. However, if you have a family, a job, community responsibilities, etc., it is understandable when you come to the conclusion that you can no longer care for your family member in the way you want them to be taken care of.
So, now the big question: how do you have the conversation with your loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease? When it comes time to discuss long-term care options for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, it’s not unusual for caregivers to get considerable resistance from the patient. They may refuse to go. They may cry and get belligerent. They don’t understand the gravity of their illness. Deep down they’re scared, confused and understandably reluctant to give up the last shreds of their old lives. That, in itself, is heartbreaking for a loving family member to watch.
What to do? Enlist other members of your family and any close friends to help you talk with your loved one. As long as you do not ambush them, they may “hear” the message better coming from someone other than you. You can also ask the doctor to be involved in the discussion.
If they are lucid enough to participate in choosing a facility, you may want to bring them along as you tour local options. Allow them to ask questions if they want to ask. Additionally, there are certain things you will need to keep an eye out for because they can’t do it for themselves. Look for any signs of negligence or abuse. Are there people wandering around or languishing in wheelchairs without any supervision? Is the place dirty? Do residents have filthy clothing or do they appear to be well cared for by the staff?
When making a choice, you will do your very best. However, if something happens that puts your loved one at risk, don’t hesitate for a moment to reach out for help from an experienced nursing home abuse and neglect lawyer. You don’t have to go it alone. We can help.
The Sugarman Law Firm is ready to fight for your family. If your loved one is the victim of abuse in a nursing home, memory care unit or assisted living facility, experienced personal injury lawyer Barry Sugarman will hold the responsible parties liable for their negligence. Contact us today for a free consultation so we can discuss your case.
