Coping with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is an emotional experience. When someone you love is affected, it can be heartbreaking to come to terms with the reality of the situation. Learning how to navigate this new normal involves a few key steps. Here’s what family members should keep in mind if their loved one is newly diagnosed.

How to Cope When Your Loved One Has Alzheimer’s

1. Learn About It

It can be helpful to learn about Alzheimer’s disease, so you know what to expect as your loved one’s memory loss progresses. Knowledge can be powerful in medical situations, especially when you may need to speak with doctors or hire caregivers to provide additional support when you aren’t available. Learning about the disease will help you understand why your loved one might behave a certain way.

2. Look for Help

Never overlook the value of help in any capacity. Turn to loved ones for emotional and tangible support. Allow friends to prepare meals, turn to family when you need to cry, and consider hiring professional caregivers to help your loved one as it becomes more difficult for them to perform various tasks at home. 

Professionals are fully trained and equipped to help with everything from cooking and cleaning to personal care. In turn, you’ll have some free time to tend to your own needs. You can only be helpful when you’re at your best, so make good use of the help that’s available to you.

3. Modify the Home

Taking steps to make the home safer for your loved one can also help you feel more confident and in control. Take it step by step and go from one room to the next. Clear common spaces, like entryways and hallways, of all clutter to prevent trips and falls. Make sure windows and doors are locked. 

Install protective handrails throughout the home, such as along the stairs and in the bathrooms. You might also add baby monitors to alert you to your loved one’s whereabouts and condition. This may give you some peace of mind, and you’ll feel better knowing you’ve done everything that you can to create a safe living space for your loved one.  

If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, turn to the professionals at Memory Care Home Solutions in St. Louis, MO, for compassionate solutions. Providing family caregiver support, the organization is committed to helping you better cope with the diagnosis while finding safe and compassionate ways to improve your loved one’s quality of life. Their free services include caregiver training and personalized guidance. Visit the website for more information, or call (314) 645-6247 to speak with a representative.