10 Ways to Help a Family Living With Disease
Information provided by the Alzheimer’s Association® and adapted by KaeBeth Rosenberg & Barbara M. Goodearl. Used by Permission: Alzheimer’s Association®, Greater Michigan Chapter
Family members who are caring for a loved one often feel alone and disconnected from their friends. They need a break, or help with things on the homefront, but hesitate to ask. They typically feel quite stressed, and welcome a listening ear. You can make a huge difference in their lives simply by being there and offering practical assistance such as ideas listed below:
- Stay in touch. Show you care.
Too often friends distance themselves when confronted with a seriously ill person. A card, a call, or a short visit, means more than you know. - Treat the sick person with respect and dignity.
Focus on all the things the person can do. Encourage them to make as many choices as they can. - Do the little things.
Run an errand, or drop off dinner. They may seem small to you, but can do wonders to lift spirits. - Be specific when offering to help.
Tackle an item or two on the family’s To Do list. If they don’t have a To-Do list, help them make one. Or, put yourself in their shoes and do something you see that needs to be done without asking permission. - Educate yourself on the illness.
Be it Cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, Stroke, or something else, learn about its effects and how to respond. - Get the whole family out of the house.
Plan an activity like a picnic, or dinner at your place. Include the sick family member whenever possible. Get a caregiver for that event and surprise them by taking them away. - Be a good listener.
Support and accept. Try not to judge. Your presence is a great gift. - Encourage the family to stay healthy.
Offer ideas for support and respite services. Provide wholesome snacks and meals. Schedule walks or bike rides when there is a caregiver available. - Allow the family some personal time.
Fill in as a caregiver, when needed or contact “Just Like Family” to do so. - Keep all family members in mind.
From tots to elders, each person reacts uniquely to the disease, and should be treated uniquely.
