Everyone deserves to have a “good day!”
Of course, what constitutes a “good day” for your loved one, now, may look different than what it was in the past. But as much as possible it should still contain things they enjoy. Helping to provide a “good day” can be a challenge if you, the primary caregiver, cannot be there because of work or other commitments.
To help create a “good day” even if you can’t be there, first think about what kind of activities and preferences your loved one would enjoy. For example, consider the list of items below: Can you describe your loved one’s preferences?
Once you catalogue what would make a “good day” for your loved one, you need to plan ways to make these activities possible. One significant challenge for you is that your loved one’s illness can include the “apathy syndrome” — the loss of motivation in goal-directed behavior, cognitive activity or emotions. This means someone else — with your guidance — will need to make all the arrangements for the “good day” to materialize.
To help accomplish this, first ask yourself who might be able to help with day-to-day activities while you are away. Is there a family member or neighbor who might be able to bring them their favorite drink, for example? Are there friends you can ask to visit, or call your loved one, at a particular time during the day? And of course if possible, you can yourself call during the day to check in with your loved one as well.
If friends or family are not available, you might consider adult day-care program options: A simple search in Google for “adult day care near me” should provide some possibilities to consider. Adult day care typically costs $15 per hour; or for a full day, $75.
Or, you can consider hiring an in-home “Private Duty Home Care Companion.” These services typically cost $23-25/hour if hiring from an agency.
Consult with your NAN Navigator about which options might be best for you and your loved one.
