Do you realize how much you do?
- You help maintain the quality of life for your spouse, parent,
family, or friend with Alzheimer’s disease.
- You become educated about symptoms, treatments, and the
progression of the disease.
- You help keep track of appointments with the doctor, medication
schedules, and exercise.
- You offer the love and support necessary to meet the challenges
of Alzheimer’s disease.
You are a caregiver. While many patients
retain their independence for a period of time after being diagnosed
with Alzheimer’s disease, some need more help with daily activities.
Regardless of how long you’ve been dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or
to what degree, in some way your life and responsibilities have also
been affected—physically, emotionally, or economically.
The role you have taken on is not an easy one. However, the following tips offer some guidance on how to maintain and
improve your caregiving relationship:
- Take time for yourself. Make sure you have time to relax. If
necessary, enlist the help of other family members or even hire
someone to help out.
- Learn as much as you can about your loved one’s disease so
you will understand what changes to expect in your loved one’s
behavior or symptoms.
- Help your loved one participate in as many activities in the
home and outside the home as much as possible. Maintain the
intricate balance between helping your loved one accomplish a task
and actually doing the task for him or her. Allow the patient the
time needed to complete daily activities on his or her own.
- Consult your loved one about his or her family affairs.
Although it’s not easy to discuss, you should learn of your loved
one’s wishes regarding a living will, durable power of attorney, and
do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order.
- Set realistic goals for yourself and your loved one. Do not
attempt to do everything. By setting attainable goals, you are
setting everyone up for success, rather than disappointment.
- Do not put your life on hold. Continue to meet with friends,
participate in hobbies or groups, and maintain a schedule as
normally as possible.
- Have someone you can talk to. You are there for your loved
one, to listen and to offer support, but you also need a support
person. Talk openly and honestly with a friend or family member. If
this is not possible, join a support group. Understanding that you
are not alone and that someone else is in a similar situation helps
you to feel nurtured.