“I truly enjoy being here. It makes me happy!”
As a caregiver for someone living with dementia, your most important job is to make sure he or she is receiving the best care possible. The person with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia might not recognize that it is time to move. It’s common and completely normal for family caregivers to reach a point in time when they question their ability to provide in-home care. It can be difficult to admit you need help. Being realistic about your capabilities and limitations as a caregiver is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s important to continually re-evaluate the person’s needs in the moment. Chances are, their requirements have changed since you have taken on the role of caregiver. There are no easy solutions. It’s natural to experience feelings of guilt when contemplating alternate options, like a personal care community.
Below is a list of questions designed to help you evaluate your situation and decide if it’s time to consider care alternatives.