Caring for a loved one with dementia can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. River Garden hosts an Alzheimer’s Association support group on the second Wednesday of each month at 3:30 PM. Adult Day is another good option for families in need.
See: https://rivergarden.org/our-services/adult-day-care/
River Garden Support for Caregivers
Dementia affects each individual differently, but common challenges for caregivers include:
- Constant Supervision: Ensuring safety and preventing wandering can be a 24/7 concern.
- Emotional Strain: Witnessing cognitive decline and managing challenging behaviors can be emotionally draining.
- Physical Exhaustion: Assisting with daily tasks, managing mobility issues, and dealing with sleep disturbances can lead to physical burnout.
- Social Isolation: Caregiving responsibilities can limit your own social interactions and support network.
- Difficulty Maintaining Personal Well-being: Finding time for your own health, hobbies, and appointments often feels impossible.
How Adult Day Programs Can Make a Difference
Adult day programs are designed to address these challenges by offering a multifaceted approach to care.
For A Person with Dementia:
- Cognitive Stimulation: Engaging activities tailored to different cognitive levels, such as reminiscence therapy, gentle exercises, arts and crafts, music, and games, can help maintain cognitive function and provide enjoyment.
- Social Interaction: Opportunities to socialize with peers in a supportive environment can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, improving mood and overall well-being.
- Structured Routine: A predictable schedule can provide a sense of security and reduce anxiety often associated with dementia.
- Personalized Care: Trained and compassionate staff understand the unique needs of individuals with dementia and provide assistance with personal care, medication reminders and behavioral support.
- Safe and Secure Environment: Programs are designed with safety in mind, minimizing risks and providing a supervised setting.
For You, the Caregiver:
- Respite and Relief: Adult day programs offer invaluable respite time, allowing you to attend to your own needs – whether it’s going to appointments, running errands, pursuing hobbies, or simply taking a much-needed break to recharge.
- Reduced Stress and Burnout: Knowing your loved one is in a safe and engaging environment can significantly reduce your stress levels and prevent caregiver burnout.
- Peace of Mind: The professional care and supervision provided by adult day programs offer peace of mind, knowing your loved one is well-cared for.
- Connection and Support: Some programs offer caregiver support groups or connect caregivers with valuable resources and information.
- Maintaining Your Own Well-being: By providing dedicated time for yourself, adult day programs empower you to prioritize your own physical and mental health, ultimately making you a more effective and sustainable caregiver.
Finding the Right Adult Day Program in Jacksonville:
When considering an adult day program, look for:
- Experienced and Compassionate Staff: Ensure the staff is specifically trained in dementia care and demonstrates patience and understanding.
- Engaging Activities: Observe the types of activities offered and ensure they are appropriate and stimulating for your loved one’s abilities.
- Safe and Accessible Environment: Check for safety features, comfortable surroundings and accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
- Communication and Involvement: Inquire about how the program communicates with caregivers and encourages your involvement.
Location and Hours: Consider the program’s location and operating hours to ensure it fits your needs.
Taking the First Step:
Don’t wait until you’re feeling overwhelmed. Explore the adult day program options available in Jacksonville, Florida today. It could be the lifeline you and your loved one truly need.
To learn more about the Adult Day Program at River Garden, contact Erica Hickey at (904) 288-7858 or visit www.rivergarden.org.