Alzheimer’s is an incurable, progressive loss of brain cells. In the beginning it targets the memory and speech, as time goes on the symptoms become wider ranging and debilitating. In the final stages of the disease it is not just the mind that is affected; the body is rapidly declining also. In the late stages of Alzheimer’s there will be difficulty swallowing, a need for assistance when changing position or moving from place to place, there is increased vulnerability to infection and a complete loss of short-term and long-term memory.
So when I learned my father had Alzheimer’s disease, I knew it would only be matter of time that he would experience disorientation, difficulty judging distances, poor vision, poor speech/writing abilities, repetitive behavior, mood swings, and depression. I needed help as I have my own family and children and knew it would be impossible for me or my sibling to take care of my father in his condition. Through out his life, my father had gone beyond his fatherly duties to provide the best life for his family. Now I wanted to do the right thing and provide the best I could for him. I started by organizing my thoughts as far as what my father would need. From mobility, taking him to his doctor appointments and leisure activities to preparing his meals, housekeeping, keeping him engaged and getting his exercise, to managing his medications, bathing and grooming. This list was no small task. I needed a professional that had experience in such a thing! I started searching for caregivers online and after few sites, I came across ElderlyCaretakers.com It said it was free, so I figured I would have nothing to lose. I joined and after signing up which was quick and painless, I started reviewing the candidates that were offering their services as caregivers, and in home nurses. Few candidates, seemed interesting enough as they had already cared for an Alzheimer’s patient in the past. I contacted them and arranged an interview. It was my second interview that I came across a superb caregiver that was open to providing references and background check. My brother and I are very relieved to have found such a caring, experienced caregiver for my father. As difficult as its been dealing with my dad’s Alzheimer’s disease, it’s a good feeling to know he is now in good hands.