Accepting a Chronic Disease Diagnosis Is Beneficial for Seniors and Their Family Members

Facing a chronic disease diagnosis head-on does not mean giving up.

In Isaac Asimov’s opinion, “The easiest way to solve a problem is to deny it exists.” It’s a standard feeling for many family caregivers when their loved one is faced with a chronic disease diagnosis, such as dementia. Even though this can instill some measure of comfort in thinking that life can carry on like it always has, if only we don’t acknowledge this new reality, the truth is that acknowledgement is extremely important in order to get the necessary support.

It is understandable for a family member to wish to deliver all of the care a senior loved one needs. Nevertheless, frequently in the crux of denial are feelings of guilt, helplessness, and in some cases incompetence in the ability to “fix things.” And you will find important advantages to be gained – both for your loved one and his or her family members – by facing the situation head-on, such as the chance to savor time together, and also to uncover effective approaches to manage any challenges being faced now or once the condition progresses.

AARP offers some helpful issues to consider for families struggling to come to grips with a senior loved one’s diagnosis:

• It is possible to be TOO positive. Sustaining a sunny disposition is fantastic, but can actually be harmful if not tempered with a dose of reality. Often those with a chronic disease find relief in speaking freely and truthfully in regards to what they are facing, and acceptance is vital to supplying opportunities for such discussions.
• Acceptance is not giving up. Rather, acknowledging your loved one’s condition opens the door to understanding practical strategies to control the disease, and to finding the supportive services that will allow for the greatest possible quality of life.
• Cherish the time you have with your loved one. Letting go of denial helps you to shift your focus to implementing a brand new normal. There is something freeing about eliminating the elephant in the room, permitting an unencumbered closeness with your family member.
• Permit others to help. Being confronted with a difficult diagnosis in a family member can be a challenging undertaking, and it’s essential for family caregivers to make sure plenty of time is available on a consistent, regular basis for self-care. Accept any help offered by family, friends your religious organization, etc., or get in touch with an expert home care agency like Hired Hands Homecare. Understand that you are only able to supply the very best care for your loved one when you are in good health, physically and emotionally.

Finding a dependable care partner is key. Hired Hands Homecare, providers of senior home care Pleasanton families trust, can deal with many of the more mundane areas of care, to help you spend high quality time with the older adult you adore. Contact us online or call (866) 940-4343 to schedule an in-home consultation to learn more. See our service page to view our full California service area.