Helpful Hint...

Ask for help. Often friends and relatives need some direction on how they can help with respite care, household chores or errands. Try not to rely on only one source of support.

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Caregiver Support

Usually, dementia caregivers spend significantly more time on caregiving than people caring for those with other types of illnesses. This type of caregiving also has a greater impact in terms of employment complications, caregiver strain, mental and physical health problems, leisure time and family conflict.

The National Alzheimer's Association has developed "10 Ways to Help Reduce Caregiver Stress" to assist you in providing the best possible care, while maintaining your own health and well being.

1. Get a diagnosis as early as possible

Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease may appear gradually. If a person seems physically healthy, it's easy to ignore unusual behavior or attribute it to something else. Some dementia symptoms are treatable. Once you know what you're dealing with, you'll be able to better manage the present and plan for the future.

2. Know what resources are available

For your own well-being and that of the person you are caring for, become familiar with the resources available in your community.

3. Become an educated caregiver

As Alzheimer's disease progresses, different caregiving skills and capabilities are necessary. Care techniques and suggestions available from the Alzheimer's Association can help you better understand and cope with many of the challenging behaviors and personality changes that often accompany Alzheimer's disease.

4. Get Help

Trying to do everything by yourself will leave you exhausted. The support of family, friends and community resources can be an enormous help. If assistance is not offered, ask for it. If you have difficulty asking for help have someone close to you advocate for you. If stress becomes overwhelming, don't be afraid to seek professional help.

5. Take care of yourself

Caregivers frequently devote themselves totally to those they care for, and in the process, neglect their own physical and emotional needs. Watch your diet, exercise and get plenty of rest. Use respite services to take time off to take care of you. Those closest to you, including your loved one with Alzheimer's disease want you to take care of yourself.

6. Manage your level of stress

Stress can cause physical problems (blurred vision, stomach irritation, high blood pressure) and changes in behavior (irritability, lack of concentration, loss of appetite). Note your symptoms. Use relaxation techniques that work for you and consult a physician.

7. Accept changes as they occur

People with Alzheimer's disease change and so do their needs. They often require care beyond what you can provide at home. A thorough investigation of available care options should make transitions easier.

8. Do legal and financial planning

Planning now will alleviate stress later. If possible and appropriate, involve the person with Alzheimer's and other family members in planning activities and decisions.

9. Be realistic

Until a cure is found, the progression of Alzheimer's disease is inevitable. The care you provide does make a difference. Give yourself permission to grieve for the losses you experience.

10. Give yourself credit

Occasionally, you may lose patience and at times, be unable to provide all of the care the way you'd like. Remember you're doing the best you can. If the person with dementia could, they would thank you.

Caregivers may find it very useful to participate in a caregiver support group either in person or through a caregiver website. Support groups provide an opportunity to exchange ideas and information and offer support. Contact your local Alzheimer's Association or Kansas Department on Aging for a list of the support groups in your area.

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