Life After Diagnosis: Advice for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

Alzheimer's Disease  

Being a caregiver for an individual with Alzheimer’s is a loving, selfless act, but it comes with its share of stress and challenges. However, there are many ways to make the experience feel less overwhelming. Here are a few tips caregivers can try to make the journey a little easier.

Someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s every 67 seconds. As the disease progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult for sufferers to care for themselves, and oftentimes a loved one steps in to help with day-to-day life.

Being a caregiver for an individual with Alzheimer’s is a loving, selfless act, but it comes with its share of stress and challenges. However, there are many ways to make the experience feel less overwhelming. Here are a few tips caregivers can try to make the journey a little easier:

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Know the early indicators

Absentmindedness is not the same as clinically-diagnosed Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Knowing the difference between normal forgetfulness (like not recalling the name of a new acquaintance or a recently-visited restaurant) and a regular pattern of inability to retain information that impacts daily life (such as a medication schedule or even personal hygiene habits) can help caregivers identify when to seek additional medical treatment. This list helps distinguish between harmless “senior moments” that come with aging and red flags that Alzheimer’s may be progressing.

Plan some activities

"No matter what, caring for those who can no longer care for themselves is a tremendously compassionate act, and you have already made their lives better simply by bearing that responsibility."

An Alzheimer’s diagnosis shouldn’t feel like a jail sentence for caregivers or their ailing loved one. Planning some fun things to do inside and outside the home can break up the humdrum of trying to get through the day. Going outside by visiting the park, stopping by a local museum, or making a trek to a place that holds fond memories may provide both of you a break from the monotony that this disease sometimes imposes upon people.

Adjust your approach to communication

Severe memory impairment and mood swings are characteristics of the illness that can put a wrench in communication skills. Trying to remain patient is the first step in learning how to cope with these changes. This article from the National Institute on Aging offers other helpful advice for making the transition as smooth as possible, such as maintaining eye contact, being aware of body language, and encouraging a mutual conversation as often as possible.

Consider a four-legged friend

This guide demonstrates how special service dogs may help treat Alzheimer’s symptoms, and provide assistance to caregivers who are juggling other responsibilities such as careers and raising a family. Having a dog, even one who hasn’t received the rigorous training required to be classified as a service or therapy dog, may still provide emotional benefits to caregivers and their loved ones.

An Alzheimer’s diagnosis can feel like a devastating blow to sufferers and their loved ones. However, there are many things you can do as a caregiver to help make daily life a little less stressful for both of you. It’s also important to remember that no matter what, caring for those who can no longer care for themselves is a tremendously compassionate act, and you have already made their lives better simply by bearing that responsibility.


Top Image via Pixabay

By Vee Cecil

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Author Bio - Vee Cecil is a wellness coach, personal trainer, and bootcamp instructor. Vee is passionate about studying and sharing her findings in wellness through her recently-launched blog.