10 Ways to be a Healthy Caregiver
Information provided by the Alzheimer’s Association and adapted by KaeBeth Rosenberg. Used by Permission: Alzheimer’s Association®, Greater Michigan Chapter
- Get a diagnosis as early as possible
With Alzheimer’s Disease, symptoms may appear gradually. When your loved one seems physically healthy, it can be easy to explain away unusual behavior. Don’t delay consulting a physician, as some of these symptoms are treatable. Early diagnosis is important in treating other diseases as well. - Know what resources are available
Your doctor should be able to point you in the right direction for help in your community. Visiting nurses, Meals-on-Wheels, In-home assistance, or adult daycare are some services that may lend a hand. - Become an educated caregiver
As diseases progress, new caregiving skills will be necessary. Seek out help so you will better understand and be able to cope with changes in your loved ones health. The team members of “Just Like Family” can train you along the way. - Get help
Don’t try to do everything by yourself or you will be left exhausted. Seek support from family, friends, and community resources. If you don’t want to ask for help, have someone advocate for you. Support group meetings, and helplines are a good source of comfort and reassurance. If stress becomes overwhelming, seek out professional help. - Take care of yourself
Be sure to get exercise, watch your diet, and get plenty of rest. Make time to visit with a friend, go shopping, or to a movie by taking advantage of community services like in-home care, adult day care, or respite care services. - Manage your level of stress
Stress can cause physical problems (such as high blood pressure, stomach upset, and blurred vision) and changes in behavior (like loss of appetite, lack of concentration, and irritability). Note your symptoms use relaxation techniques such as breathing, yoga, listening to soft music, etc., and consult your doctor. - Accept changes as they occur
People with diseases change, and so do their needs. They often require care beyond what you can do on your own. Check out your options like in-home care, and this should make the transitions easier, and will provide the support and assistance you and your loved one need. - Do legal and financial planning
Plan ahead. Consult with an attorney to discuss legal and financial issues, including living wills and trusts, durable power of attorney, future medical care, housing, and long-term care insurance. If possible, and appropriate, involve the person you’re caring for, as well as other family members. - Be realistic
Know that the care you provide really does make a difference. Also keep in mind that, until a cure is found, progression of disease is inevitable. Many things that occur are beyond your control, and the control of your loved one. Give yourself permission to grieve losses, but remember to celebrate the positive moments as they arise, and enjoy the good memories. - Give yourself credit, not guilt
There may be times that you’ll lose patience, and find yourself unable to provide all of the care in the way you’d like. Keep in mind that you’re doing the best you can. Don’t feel badly because you can’t do more. Your loved one needs you, and you are there. That should make you feel very proud.
