Coping with an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis & Navigating Memory Care

Posted By on June 8, 2021

When you receive the news that a parent or family member has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it can feel earth-shattering. With all the feelings, questions, and emotions running through your head, you might be completely overwhelmed and unsure how to cope.

HarborChase of Villages Crossing, located in Lady Lake, Florida, knows how emotional an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be. We’re sharing some tools for coping with the diagnosis, preparing yourself for the challenges ahead, and understanding care options at HarborChase of Villages Crossing. 

Allow Yourself to Feel

The days following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can feel like a blur—you’re overcome with so many emotions but are also trying to remain strong for your family member—and can quickly lead to exhaustion and burnout. The most helpful thing to do at this point is to recognize and acknowledge your feelings. It’s important to remind yourself that everything you’re feeling (even if it’s unpleasant) is valid. If it helps, you can even journal your feelings as a way of letting them all out. 

As you process your own emotions, don’t forget to check on your family member as they are undoubtedly feeling a wide range of emotions as well. Ask them how you can best support them at this time. 

Days/Weeks Following a Diagnosis

Research (But Don’t Over-Research)

Once you have allowed yourself time to process your emotions, you can begin to research and educate yourself on Alzheimer’s disease, including what to expect, how it progresses, and how you can assist as a family member and potential caregiver. You can also find support groups for individuals and families going through the same thing. When researching online, however, it’s essential not to take everything you read at face value. While the internet can be a great resource, if you have any questions or concerns about your family’s specific situation, it’s best to ask your healthcare provider. 

Encourage Healthy Lifestyle Changes

While there is, unfortunately, no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are several habits and lifestyle changes that can promote cognitive health. Encourage your family member to adopt some of these habits, including regular exercise, mental stimulation, a healthy diet, and socialization. 

Planning for the Future

Knowing when to consider care can be a delicate decision and can vary from person to person. However, it’s a good idea to have this discussion while your parent or family member can effectively communicate their wishes. While you may have been planning to care for them yourself, it’s important to realize just how demanding this can be and keep other options in mind. 

Memory Care Solutions

Memory care services, like those offered near The Villages at HarborChase of Villages Crossing, are an excellent option for families seeking professional and comfortable care after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Our team of experienced associates is well-versed in managing the unique challenges associated with memory loss and works to establish a comfortable, safe, and encouraging environment. 

Each day is unique and exciting in our secure memory care community. We offer a diverse calendar of events and programs, all intended to promote cognitive function and overall well-being. Some activities you can expect to find in our Lady Lakes community near The Villages, Florida, are morning walks, baking classes, digital brain games, and music-based programming. 

Family First

We also know how important it is for family members to be included in custom care plans and community life, so at HarborChase of Villages Crossing, we involve them as much as possible in the daily happenings, as well as specialized education and support sessions. 

Memory Care in Lady Lake, Florida

At HarborChase of Villages Crossing, we know how overwhelming it can be when a family member receives an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Wherever you and your family are on your journey, we can support you. Our welcoming, stimulating, and encouraging memory care community near The Villages, Florida, creates an enhanced lifestyle for those with memory loss—giving them daily joy and assistance while giving family members peace of mind. 

We encourage you to contact us for more information about our memory care services at HarborChase of Villages Crossing. We are happy to answer any questions or concerns about memory care, Alzheimer’s, and more.

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