The most effective caregiver is well-informed, prepared, and ASKS for help and support from all resources that are available.
Challenges of caregiving for patients with Alzheimer’s disease
There are some unique challenges that a patient with Alzheimer’s
disease confronts. First, the disease is quite variable. There may be
times when the patient can function almost normally and then other times
in which the patient may be very dependent. This is a natural part of
the disease. Also, the patient's response to medications may fluctuate.
There is a natural tendency for a caregiver to suspect that the patient
might be unnecessarily demanding or manipulative. The caregiver may see
the patient functioning normally but then assume that the patient should
always be able to function normally.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder. While medications can provide some relief of symptoms, they do not stop
the progression of the disease.
Depression is very much a part of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s symptoms and disability can be made worse by
depression, so it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression and help your loved one seek treatment promptly.
References
National Institute on Aging. Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center: Helping Caregivers Cope.
www.nia.nih.gov.
Accessed 12/27/2010
Alzheimer’s Association. Living with Alzheimer’s: Caring for Alzheimer’s.
www.alz.org Accessed 12/27/2010
Family Caregiver Alliance. Caring for Adults with Cognitive and Memory Impairments.
www.caregiver.org
Accessed 12/27/2010