As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s continues to rise – now exceeding 6 million Americans – the dedicated caregivers supporting these older adults find themselves confronted with challenges such as managing high stress levels, dealing with sleep deprivation and struggling to find time for self-care. Unfortunately for caregivers, these factors are known to contribute to the development of the disease, putting them at greater risk.
Eighty percent of Alzheimer’s care is provided in the home, not a facility, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As the leading provider of in-home care for older adults, Home Instead® recognizes the vital role caregivers have in the lives of individuals affected by Alzheimer’s. Beyond providing care to those with the disease, it’s important to protect the well-being of Alzheimer’s caregivers themselves.
“Among the most common concerns our Care Professionals hear from family caregivers is that they don’t want their own children to become family caregivers,” said Lakelyn Hogan Eichenberger, Ph.D., gerontologist and caregiving advocate at Home Instead. “Alzheimer’s is a difficult disease to live with for everyone involved. Carving time for self-care might feel selfish, but it’s the most productive action you can take to keep your future self healthy.”
On Thursday, Sept. 21, at 12:00PM CDT, Home Instead is hosting a virtual brain health workshop for family caregivers to learn more about how maintaining a healthy brain can positively impact your memory and help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Registration is free, click here to RSVP.
During World Alzheimer’s Month, Home Instead is calling attention to the connection between healthy habits and brain health and encouraging caregivers to prioritize their needs. Growing evidence suggests that people can reduce their risk of cognitive decline by adopting key lifestyle changes. But major changes can feel overwhelming to those caring for loved ones.
