A Healthy Approach to Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer's Disease
This site offers lots of positive suggestions for taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer's disease--and taking care of yourself at the same time.
The first thing to remember is that knowledge is power! Stay in touch with your loved one's doctor. Learn about the symptoms of this disease and what to expect in the future. For starters, this is what you need to know about how the disease works:
In the early stages of the disease, your loved one may begin to have problems finding a word or counting change at the checkout counter. In time, he or she may not be able to remember things that just happened, though he or she may have a clear memory of things that happened long ago. Your loved one may begin to have different sleep patterns and may wander away from home.
In the late stages of the disease, he or she may not be able to care for himself or herself or communicate. At this point, he or she may not be able to remember recent or distant events. You may feel that your loved one lacks emotion, and he or she may not be able to recognize you and other caregivers and close family members.
Feeling frustrated, guilty, ashamed and hopeless at times are normal feelings for caregivers. Venting these feelings will help you to feel less stressed. Talk with a friend, a clergy person, a support group, or a professional listener, like a therapist or counselor.
- Next: Signs and Symptoms
Reviewed by Dr. Sue Levkoff
