Maybe you’re trying to repay them after everything they’ve done for you. Or maybe you’re hesitant to trust someone else with their care. Or maybe your loved one just flat-out refuses additional help from a memory care community. Whatever the situation, being the primary caregiver for a family member with dementia is hard. And feelings of guilt are likely to creep in along the way.
What is Caregiver Guilt?
Caregiver guilt is an extremely real and painful experience, and it comes in many different forms. Feeling overwhelmed with the responsibilities of caregiving, feeling impatient with your loved one, or even blaming yourself for things that have happened are common. Guilt can often lead to feelings of shame, depression, anxiety, anger, and even resentment towards the person you’re caring for.
The realization that you are no longer able to care for your loved one with dementia is an unsure and overwhelming process. It’s tough to let go and turn to additional support, especially when your loved one is refusing. Caregiver guilt can have real consequences for the relationship with your loved one if it goes on too long. But at the end of the day, you must do what’s best for both of you. Their health and safety matter most, and so does your well-being .
How to Cope
A dementia diagnosis flips your world upside down, and realizing that you can no longer care for your family member is a lot to bear. Fortunately, there are ways to cope with the guilt you are dealing with.
- Be kind to yourself: Remind yourself that guilt, shame, and resentment are perfectly normal emotions for caregivers to experience. It’s a challenging process to watch the progression of dementia in your loved one.
- Seek out support: Join a support group or talk to others in similar situations to gain perspective, process your emotions, and learn that you’re not alone in this journey.
- Prioritize self-care: Take time for yourself—it’s not selfish. Participate in your favorite hobbies or consider journaling to alleviate stress and manage your feelings.
- Give it time: Adjusting to a new environment takes time—for both you and your loved one. It’s a gradual process, and it’s okay if it doesn’t happen overnight.
- Believe it’s for the best: It’s never going to be an easy decision to loosen the reins and accept help; however, know that you will be improving the quality of life for your loved one, both medically and socially.
Memory Care
After deciding that additional support is needed, you’ll probably ask yourself: What now?
As dementia progresses into the later stages, it may be time to consider memory care. Memory care communities are designed to meet the needs of individuals facing cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Our team at Buckingham Heights is specially trained to focus on the unique strengths and needs of every resident. Your loved one will receive personalized care and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, grooming, and dressing. Additionally, on-site nursing staff are available to address any health concerns that arise, providing you with both comfort and peace of mind.
Our community is dedicated to creating a warm, comfortable, and safe space where your loved one can feel right at home. We also offer around-the-clock memory care activities schedule intended to stimulate the mind and ensure that every resident is left entirely fulfilled. Some of these activities include daily exercise programs, music and pet therapy, social gatherings, happy hours, and holiday parties.
At Buckingham Heights, our memory care community offers more than just a place to live — it’s a new beginning filled with meaningful possibilities. We understand that the transition into memory care can be a challenging and emotional decision. That’s why we’re here to walk alongside your loved one on their dementia journey, offering compassionate support every step of the way. Contact us today!
