Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide
Tips for Caregivers of a Person with Alzheimer's Disease
Caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease (AD) at home is a difficult task
and can become overwhelming at times. Each day brings new challenges as the
caregiver copes with changing levels of ability and new patterns of behavior.
Research has shown that caregivers themselves often are at increased risk for
depression and illness, especially if they do not receive adequate support from
family, friends, and the community.
One of the biggest struggles caregivers face is dealing with the difficult
behaviors of the person they are caring for. Dressing, bathing, eating - basic
activities of daily living - often become difficult to manage for both the person
with Alzheimer's disease and the caregiver. Having a plan for getting through the day can help
caregivers cope. Many caregivers have found it helpful to use strategies for
dealing with difficult behaviors and stressful situations. Through trial and
error you will find that some of the following tips work, while others do not.
Each person with Alzheimer's disease is unique and will respond differently, and each person
changes over the course of the disease. Do the best you can, and remind yourself
to take breaks.
Dealing with the Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease
Finding out that a loved one has Alzheimer's disease can be stressful,
frightening, and overwhelming. As you begin to take stock of the situation, here
are some tips that may help:
- Ask the doctor any questions you have about Alzheimer's disease. Find out what treatments
might work best to alleviate symptoms or address behavior problems.
- Contact
organizations such as the Alzheimer's Association and the Alzheimer's Disease
Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center for more information about the disease,
treatment options, and caregiving resources. Some community groups may offer
classes to teach caregiving, problem-solving, and management skills.
- Find a support group where you can share your feelings and
concerns. Members of support groups often have helpful ideas or know of useful
resources based on their own experiences. Online support groups make it possible
for caregivers to receive support without having to leave home.
- Study your day
to see if you can develop a routine that makes things go more smoothly. If there
are times of day when the person with Alzheimer's disease is less confused or more cooperative,
plan your routine to make the most of those moments. Keep in mind that the way
the person functions may change from day to day, so try to be flexible and adapt
your routine as needed.
- Consider using adult day care or respite services to
ease the day-to-day demands of caregiving. These services allow you to have a
break while knowing that the person with Alzheimer's disease is being well cared for.
- Begin to plan for the future. This may include getting financial and
legal documents in order, investigating long-term care options, and
determining what services are covered by health insurance and Medicare.
Next: Communicating with a Person with Alzheimer's Disease »
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