Introduce and Integrate a Caregiver: Six Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias

Adding a new caregiver to your support team can be a challenging transition, whether they're coming into your home, assisting your loved one who lives alone, or joining the care team in a memory care community. This transition can be particularly difficult for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's or dementia, as changes in routine can cause confusion and resistance.

If your loved one doesn't think they need help (and let's be honest, many don't), don't give up too quickly. Be patient and allow the process time to unfold. As one experienced caregiver shared, "He told the new caregiver for at least the first couple of weeks, every time she came, 'You need to go home.' She would just smile at him and say, 'Well, I'm not going home just yet.'"