Are you currently caring for a family member or spouse? Drop by the cafe to share your insights with Jackie, Jeff, and friends.

   At some point in time, your loved one will be hospitalized, either as an emergency or a scheduled visit.  Hospitalization automatically elevates the stress level of care recipients and caregivers; but when your loved one has memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer's disease, the caregiver's stress level can go through the roof. 

Thanks to the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center (ADEAR), caregivers can download a free Guide to Hospital Visits for Individuals with Memory Loss.

In it, you will find simple steps to plan ahead for an unexpected or scheduled hospitalization to make it easier on you, your loved one, and your family:

• Know who you can depend on - Arrange to have at least 2 dependable family members or friends you can call on to meet you at the hospital so that you can take care of the paperwork and they can stay with your loved one.
•  Prepare a personal information sheet on your loved one - Include:  medications and foods they are allergic to; degree of impairment and amount of personal assistance the y require; highlight behaviors of concern
• Prepare a Hospital Bag containing items for your loved one as well as you in case of an emergency. 
• Be patient and reasonable in dealing with hospital personnel

You can also call the ADEAR Center toll-free at 1-800-438-4380 for additional resources and referrals. 

Hospitalization Happens; but knowing how to prepare yourself, your loved one, and your support team can decrease the inevitable stress level for all.   Caringly,  Jackie