Caregiver Tips

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A Caregiver's Guide to Alzheimer's Disease

When once familiar tasks start feeling like completely new actions, an Alzheimer’s diagnosis may be on the horizon. Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive brain disorder that results in memory loss, language deficiencies, and other cognitive impairments. It is the most common form of dementia that is affecting millions of people all over the world. While there is no current cure for Alzheimer’s, there are many treatments, recommendations, and help centers to improve the quality of life of both patients and caregivers as they go through this challenging journey.

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Tip #3

Support Groups

You may feel less alone and learn new ideas by connecting with others who are going through similar experiences. The Alzheimer's Association hosts regularly scheduled support groups to help you meet other caregivers who know what you're experiencing. By attending these meetings, you can receive comfort and reassurance from other caregivers. And while you're in a caregiver support group, there may be a group going on at the same time for the person with dementia.

You can visit our Web site and join a discussion on one of our online message boards. This online community provides a forum for caregivers to discuss issues and share thoughts and experiences all day, every day.

Being a part of a support network allows you to learn how others manage their caregiving duties and what they do to cope. It's important to talk to people who have similar feelings and experiences so that you know you are not alone.

Educational Programs

After your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's, it's important to learn as much as you can about the disease. Your local Alzheimer's Association offers a variety of workshops and education programs for anyone who wants to learn more about the disease, as well as specialized sessions that teach participants how to provide the best care possible.

Our Web site and publications provide extensive information about the disease and available treatments, what to expect and how to cope. As you learn more about Alzheimer's, you will increase your ability to manage changing behaviors, unexpected needs, and daily caregiving tasks. Enhancing your knowledge will allow you to become a more confident and experienced caregiver.

Tip #2

The person with dementia may ask you to make promises about how you will provide care, either now or in the future. A common promise caregivers are asked is to make sure the person with Alzheimer's does not move to residential care as the disease progresses.

If you are asked to make promises about future care, remember that neither of you knows what lies ahead. As Alzheimer's progresses, an individual's care will need to change. Comfort the person by making a promise to always provide them with the best care possible. Assure them that you will always keep their needs, wishes, and best interests in mind when making choices if they become unable. Don't promise how care will be delivered- just that the person will always be cared for and safe.

If you've already made a promise and find yourself having to go against it, remember that the person is in a different state than they were when you made that promise. As a caregiver, it's your job to make sure the person is receiving good care. That may mean using care practices that the person once asked you not to use. You need to look into the person's needs at the moment, not based on an old conversation.

There are no easy solutions, and it's natural to feel guilty about going against someone's wishes. But you should feel good that you're making decisions to maximize the person's well-being, comfort, and dignity.

Tip #1

Symptoms of caregiver stress:

Denial
Anger
Social withdrawal
Anxiety
Depression
Exhaustion
Sleeplessness
Irritability
Lack of concentration
Problems with physical health

Tips for dealing with stress:

Know what resources are available: Adult day care, in-home assistance, visiting nurses, and Meals-on-Wheels are just some of the services that can help you. Find out what's available in your community
Become an educated caregiver. As the disease progresses, new caregiver skills will become necessary. The Alzheimer's Association and www.alz.org can provide you with information and resources on all aspects of the disease
Get help. You are not failing as a caregiver by asking others for assistance. Seek the support of your family, friends, and community resources
Take care of yourself. Watch your diet, exercise, and get plenty of rest. Make time for friends and family. Take advantage of respite care options so you can take a break once in a while
Manage your stress level. If you experience any of the symptoms of caregiver stress, try relaxation techniques that work for you and consult your doctor to learn if there's anything further you can do
Accept changes as they occur. People with Alzheimer's will change, and so will their daily needs. They often require care beyond what you provide- and it's important that you don't try to do everything yourself
Make legal and financial plans. At the beginning of your duties as a caregiver, consult an attorney to discuss the legal, financial, and care issues. Whenever possible, involve the person with Alzheimer's and family members
Be realistic. Many of the behaviors that occur are beyond your control and the control of the person with Alzheimer's. You will need to find time alone or with supportive friends to grieve and be angry
Give yourself credit, not guilt. You are doing the best you can. Don't feel guilty because you can't do more. The person with Alzheimer's needs you, and you are there.