Alzheimer's caregiver infographic

Alzheimer's Caregiver Caring for someone who has Alzheimer's disease (AD) can be extremely stressful and overwhelming at times. It's important to take care of yourself, Ask for and accept help from others. Talk to the doctor and find out what treatments might help control symptoms or address behavior problems. Find a support group because others who have "been there" may be able to

help and will understand. If there are times of day that the person is less confused or more cooperative, take advantage of that in daily routines. Consider using adult day care or other helpful services. These offer a break with the peace of mind that the patient is being taken care of. Also, it is always helpful to begin to plan for the future.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia can be a long, stressful, and intensely emotional journey. But you're not alone. In the United States, there are about 15 million people that are caring for someone with dementia, and millions of others around the world. As there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, and only limited medical treatments available for the symptoms, it is your caregiving that can make the biggest difference to your loved one's quality of life.

However, caregiving can also become all-consuming. As your loved one's cognitive, physical, and functional abilities diminish over the years, it's very easy to become overwhelmed and neglect your own health and well-being. The burden of caregiving can put you at increased risk for significant health problems and an estimated 30 to 40% of dementia caregivers will experience depression, high levels of stress, or burnout. Nearly all Alzheimer's caregivers will experience sadness, anxiety, loneliness, and exhaustion. Seeking help and support along the way is not a luxury for caregivers, but a necessity.

Just as each individual with Alzheimer's disease progresses differently, so can the caregiving experience vary from person to person. However, there are strategies that can help make the caregiving journey as rewarding as it is challenging.A person with Alzheimer's disease might become agitated when simple tasks become difficult. To limit challenges and ease frustration:

1. Schedule wisely Establish a routine to make each day less irritating and confusing. People with Alzheimer's can still learn and follow routines. Most of the times, it is best to schedule tasks, such as bathing or medical appointments, when the person is most alert and refreshed. Allow some flexibility within the routine for spontaneous activities.

2. Take your time It is realistic to expect things to take longer than they used to. Allow the person with Alzheimer's disease to have frequent breaks. Schedule more time for tasks so that you don't need to hurry him or her.

3. Involve the person Allow your loved one to do as much as possible with the least amount of help. For example, people with Alzheimer's disease might be able to set the table with the help of visual cues or dress independently if you lay out clothes in the order they go on.

4. Provide choices Fewer options are better but try to give the person with Alzheimer's disease choices every day.

For example, provide two outfits to choose from, ask if he or she prefers a hot or cold beverage, or ask if he or she would rather go for a walk or see a movie.

5. Reduce distractions Turn off the TV and minimize other distractions at mealtime and during conversations to make it easier for the person with Alzheimer's disease to focus.

Learning all you can about what is happening and what to expect on the Alzheimer's journey will not only help your loved one, but is also the first step towards protecting your own mental and physical health.