Still time to "max out" your IRA

Agitation and frustration are common behaviors for those with Alzheimer's and can lead to a feeling of hopelessness by you, the caregiver or family member. There are a few strategies that may help, but first, as hard as it is, you must come to terms that mom's or dad's reality may be different now. Trying to meet them in their world will help you to truly empathize with their feelings and could help you problem-solve whatever behavior you are facing. The goal is creating for your loved one the best life they can live, full of as much independence and purpose, while trying to redirect frustration and keep them safe.While caring for your loved one, you may experience your own sadness and frustration or you may struggle to find balance. It's especially important for caregivers to make time for themselves. Creating an environment in which all of these tips can be performed all the time may not be realistic for you. Likely it will be exhausting, and at times, rewarding. A support group like the one we offer may help you meet other people in your same situation and offer a break away from your duties at home.Here are some quick tips for caregivers as you learn to communicate with your loved one:1. Arguments are useless. In fact, they often make matters worse. Confusion, memory loss and frustration are making the person behave irrationally, and you cant argue them out of it.2. Allow as much independence and freedom as possible, while keeping safety and comfort in mind.3. Actions help when verbal communication fails. Help by demonstrating what you mean, or by starting the activity in question.4. Assume that your loved one may understand and hear what you say even if they are confused. Do not say things in front of them as if they are not there.5. Appreciate good moments or good days even though the persons ability may not be what it used to be.6. Appropriate and productive activities help pass the time and reduce agitation, boredom, daytime sleeping and depression. Give your loved one safe, realistic tasks or activities that can be easily finished and would be something he or she would have enjoyed doing normally, such as an art project or planting flowers.7. Agitation is often alleviated when the caregiver remains calm, reassuring and respectful of the persons feelings. "Centering" can help you get control of emotions when things get to be too much. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly numerous times until you can gain composure.8. Adults with disabilities are still adults. It is important that they are always treated with respect and dignity.9. Adapt a task or activity to fit the ability of the resident. Break down the activity into separate steps; simplify tasks by eliminating parts that could be frustrating.10. Assessment is ongoing. What is safe and effective for now may change. Keep watching and reevaluating.

If there is a sudden health-related event that forces a move for your loved one into a senior living community, time is of the essence in figuring out ways to meet the financial obligations. It is common for families to struggle with the upfront costs and be unprepared for move-in fees, monthly rent, and costs associated with making this move. One resource you can consider is using a bridge loan which provides access to the needed funds quickly so that you can get the senior living lifestyle your loved one wants and deserves. Meridian communities have partnered with Elderlife Financial in providing the Elderlife Bridge Loan which is a financial bridge, allowing you to pay for care now while waiting on permanent funding. When approved for a bridge loan, funds can be disbursed within 24 hours, which can help ease the burden on a family navigating difficult decisions. The borrowed funds can be paid back in just a few months or a little over a year, whenever the family funds that were previously tied up become available. Examples include receiving the proceeds from selling a home, liquidating retirement assets, or receiving the retroactive check from VA Benefits.To learn more about other resources to affording care, call us today. We are here for you!

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia can be both rewarding and challenging. As a caregiver, it's essential to prioritize your own well-being to ensure you have the strength and resilience to provide the best possible care. Here are some practical self-care tips to help caregivers maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health while supporting their loved ones.1. Educate YourselfUnderstanding Alzheimer's or dementia can help alleviate feelings of confusion and frustration. Educate yourself about the disease, its progression, and common symptoms. Knowledge empowers you to anticipate challenges, make informed decisions, and provide better care for your loved one.2. Seek SupportYou're not alone on this journey. Reach out to family, friends, or support groups for emotional support and practical assistance. Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can provide comfort, validation, and valuable insights.3. Take BreaksCaregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding. It's essential to take regular breaks to rest, recharge, and engage in activities you enjoy. Consider respite care services, where trained professionals can step in to provide temporary care, allowing you to take much-needed time for yourself.4. Prioritize Self-CareMake self-care a non-negotiable priority. Eat a balanced diet, prioritize regular exercise, and get enough sleep. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress and promote emotional well-being.5. Set Realistic ExpectationsAccept that you can't do it all, and that's okay. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your caregiving role. Be kind to yourself and recognize that it's normal to experience a range of emotions, including guilt, frustration, and grief.6. Establish BoundariesSet boundaries to protect your own physical and emotional health. Learn to say no to additional responsibilities or requests that exceed your capacity. Communicate your needs and limitations openly with family members and healthcare professionals.7. Stay ConnectedMaintain connections with friends, hobbies, and interests outside of your caregiving role. Socializing and engaging in activities that bring you joy can provide a much-needed break from caregiving responsibilities and help prevent feelings of isolation and burnout.8. Utilize ResourcesTake advantage of community resources and support services available for caregivers. This may include support groups, respite care programs, caregiver training workshops, and educational materials. Don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.9. Practice Patience and CompassionCaring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia requires patience, understanding, and compassion. Remember that your loved one's behaviors and abilities may change over time, and it's essential to approach caregiving with empathy and kindness.10. Monitor Your Own HealthLastly, don't neglect your own health needs. Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, and be proactive about addressing any physical or mental health concerns you may have. Remember, prioritizing your own health is essential for your ability to continue providing care for your loved one.As a caregiver of someone with Alzheimer's or dementia, self-care is not a luxuryit's a necessity. By prioritizing your own well-being, seeking support, and practicing self-care techniques, you can better navigate the challenges of caregiving while maintaining your own health and happiness. Remember, you're doing an incredible job, and taking care of yourself is an essential part of the caregiving journey.