Caring for a person with dementia from a long distance presents many challenges for Sooke residents.
Develop a plan of action. Caregivers should take some basic steps before visiting the person with dementia, she says, to create a plan that best meets their loved one’s needs.
“Talk to family members, friends, neighbours, their physician, health agencies and other people who are in contact with the person,” says Hillary.
The society’s handout, Assessing the Needs of the Person with Dementia, is an easy guide and is available online at www.alzheimerbc.org
Caregivers should identify local services needed and make appointments with service providers.
If possible, send an email prior to the appointment.
Hillary says caregivers should divide the responsibilities of care with other family members, whenever possible, then communicate regularly. Attend a free monthly meeting of the society’s family caregiver support group. It meets on the second Tuesday of the month. Contact Hillary at 250-382-2052 or chillary@alzheimerbc.org for more details.