How to Find Your Way
In unknown terrain, it’s handy to have a roadmap for the journey ahead.
Dear Caregivers,
One of the great thrills I get from exploring a new city, country, or culture is the explosion of unique sights, sounds, and tastes that flood my brain with new sensations. But of course, there can be downsides to being in unknown terrain as well, such as an unexpected dead end, a wrong turn into a difficult situation, or an unpleasant surprise that I am not prepared for.
For these occasions, it’s handy to have a roadmap at hand for the journey ahead. In the old days, travelers on a journey might get a customized paper roadmap from the American Automobile Association. These days, the route might be displayed on your smart phone with the various turns narrated by a robotic voice. Either way, it can be a great source of comfort, and huge reduction in stress, to have an outline of how you might want to move forward in your journey.
This is abundantly true of caregiving for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. To be sure, on this caregiving journey there will be poignant surprises such as the sudden flash of a loving smile from your loved one, or an impromptu remembrance that brings you two together for an intimate moment. But there are just as many times when the surprises can be unpleasant if you are not prepared, and so it’s best for a caregiver to know what lies ahead.
That’s where your NAN Navigators come in. They are experts in assessing the situation that lies ahead, and like the seafaring navigators of old or your modern-day cell phone, can help you plot the best course along your unique caregiving journey. They are your constant, trusted companion every step of the way.
Having a pathway for what lies ahead can work wonders for reducing your stress levels, because no matter what, you will have a sense of what is to come. Most importantly, perhaps, is that this sense of calm will give you the freedom to take a moment and enjoy those sweet, special, and unforgettable moments between you and your loved one that spontaneously arise along your caregiving journey.
I’m a Caregiver, Now What?
No matter what illness you and your loved one are facing, planning ahead can increase your knowledge and understanding, and will often allow for a wider range of care options and provide an overall peace of mind for everyone. Here’s a beginner’s guide that can also serve as a good “checkup” for long-time caregivers.
Understanding Stages and Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease/Dementia:
While Alzheimer's disease develops slowly over many years and every person has a unique path through the illness, there are some common symptoms. These collections of symptoms have been grouped into various stages of disease progression. I recommend you read this article about once a year to understand your loved one’s changing abilities. Here’s what to expect on each stage of the journey.
Creating a Caregiver’s Plan B:
No family caregiver wants to think they wouldn't be able to help their loved one. But the chance that something could happen to you that would make it impossible for you to provide the care support you do now makes it critical you identify an individual who is the best “Plan B” caregiver. This person will be able to quickly take over as advocate and guardian for your Loved One in the event that is needed. Here’s how to create a “Caregiver’s Plan B”.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“All you need is the plan, the road map, and the courage to press on to your destination.”
— Earl Nightingale
