Tips From an Alzheimer’s Caregiver

Are you a member of the Sandwich Generation–torn between caring for aging parents and your children? If so, you may relate to Alicia Beckett’s story. This Georgia mother of three has for years been dealing with her mother’s Alzheimer’s. And Beckett is an only child. As you also may have found, it hasn’t been easy.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution tells Beckett’s story and reveals a few tips she’s learned along the way. For one thing, she found that she had to both take over and get some help.

She also realized she didn’t have to pick up the phone every time her mother called. Her mom called her at least 20 times a day.

“Over and over, it was: ‘Where is my money? Who stole my money?’” said Beckett.

She instructed the assisted living home to hold her mom’s bills and then she started paying them.

Beckett obtained durable power of attorney over her mother’s affairs. And she hired a geriatric care manager to help her. The geriatric manager ensured her mom’s medications were refilled, that she was being well taken care of.

Here’s a video about where to find respite care. And here’s a post that talks more about geriatric-care managers.

What Sandwich Generation caregiving tips have you discovered along your journey?

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Leigh Ann Otte is a freelance writer who specializes in health and aging issues. She covers finding and paying for senior care for OurParents. If you have any questions about this post or need help finding senior care options for a loved one, call 1-866-483-4896 to speak with a care advisor in your area.