Gail Gilman, Family Life Consultant, M.Ed., C.F.C.S. and Professor
Emeritus, University of Minnesota
Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia is a hard
job. At first, you may be able to handle the responsibilities yourself, but
in time your family member will need more help with everyday tasks. As the
demands on you increase, you may drift your focus far from your family and
friends just when you need them the most. Even the most patient and
understanding caregiver can feel overwhelmed and depressed.
The ongoing stress of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can also affect
your health. Caregiving demands may weaken your immune system, leaving you
more likely to get sick more frequently and stay sick longer. You may find
it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. And you might find yourself
eating too much or too little or relying on alcohol to help you relax.
To give the best care to someone else, you have to take care of yourself.
These tips have helped others deal with caregiver stress:
Have realistic expectations. Understand that no one is a “perfect”
caregiver. You are doing the best you can at any given time. Your house
does not have to be perfect, and you do not have to fix a three-course meal
every night.
Stay connected. Make an effort to stay in touch. Set aside time for
getting out of the house, even if it is just a walk with a friend.
Pay attention to your health. Find time to be physically active, eat a
healthy diet, and try your best to get a good night’s sleep. See your
doctor for regular health appointments and screenings and make sure to tell
the doctor you are a caregiver.
Contact a memory care consultant near you. A memory care consultant can
help you assess your caregiving situation and create a plan to help you stay
healthy and active. To find a consultant near you contact the county health
and human services department in your area.
Join a support group. A support group can be a great source for
encouragement and advice from others in similar situations. It can also be
a good place to make new friends.
Be sure to watch for more Family Living Focus information in next week’s
paper.