Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that affects not just the person diagnosed but also their loved ones. You’re not alone if you’re caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s in South Africa. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, over 6 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s, and that number is expected to increase to 14 million by 2050. In South Africa, a 2017 report estimated that there were 4.4 million people over the age of 60 years living in South Africa, with approximately 187,000 living with dementia. While caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be challenging, there are resources and support available to help you.
The first step in caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is to get an accurate diagnosis. While there are currently no cures for Alzheimer’s, early diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life and slow the progression of the disease. A diagnosis can be obtained in South Africa by visiting your healthcare provider. If you suspect your loved one may have Alzheimer’s, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Once your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, there are a few things you can do to make their life more comfortable. First, it is important to create a safe environment for them. This means ensuring all potential hazards are removed from the home and that any medications they take are properly labelled and within reach. It is also important to provide them with opportunities for social interaction and stimulation. This can be done by joining an Alzheimer’s support group, enrolling them in an Alzheimer’s day care program, or arranging regular visits from friends and family.
Alzheimer’s Care Options Available in South Africa
It’s also important to look for specialised Alzheimer’s care options instead of general retirement or nursing homes. When looking for specialised Alzheimer’s care options, we encourage families and medical professionals to visit our Estates. Livewell Estates is a specialised dementia and Alzheimer’s facility in South Africa with qualified and trained nursing and care staff providing round-the-clock care to their residents. Livewell can offer specialised dementia care and provides a service tailored to you and your loved one’s needs. Livewell also allows spouses to live at their facility if their loved one is a resident. They will then be transferred to a couples suite. Taking care of your loved one may be a difficult task, but you don’t have to do it alone. There are Alzheimer’s care options, and it’s up to you to take the next step to get your loved ones the support structure they need.
We have two specialised Alzheimer’s care Estates in South Africa; Somerset West and Bryanston.
Finally, taking care of yourself while caring for your loved one with Alzheimer’s is important. This disease can be emotionally and physically draining, so you must take time for yourself. Make sure to eat healthy meals, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. You may also want to consider joining a support group for caregivers or seeking professional help if you feel like you are struggling to cope. Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is never easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Many resources and support groups are available to help you through this difficult time. Remember to take care of yourself and your loved one, and reach out for help if you need it.