COVID-19 : Impact on Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Aging-In-Place
If you’re caring for an individual with dementia during the corona virus pandemic, the first priority is minimizing their risk of infection. The precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to avoid contracting the virus is a helpful guide - and great first step.
Aside from the virus itself, many are dealing with disruptions in care and visitation, and even re-homing their loved ones or sheltering-in-place. Any external changes to a person with a dementia-related condition are amplified and can produce extreme levels of stress that they often cannot verbalize. Our job is to anticipate their needs, and maintain consistency while keeping them safe, comfortable, and occupied. This has a cascading effect on all members of the household — including the caregivers — and will help bring about stability and equanimity during this challenge.
Preparing for all situations not only protects the well being of the individual, but helps produce calmness in the Caregiver. The Alzheimer’s Store has selected go-to items to address various situations below: