Caring for the caregiver is an essential element of managing the patient with Alzheimer’s disease. Care giving is a distressing experience. On the other hand, caregiver education delays nursing home placement of Alzheimer’s disease patients.
For Alzheimer’s disease patient full–time care is necessary, either at home or in a nursing home. Caring for a person having Alzheimer’s disease is frequently stressful and many caregivers need practical and emotional support, especially if the affected person starts to become argumentative and aggressive. Support groups helps people deal with caring for an aged relatives with the disease.
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, a person’s abilities changes. Eventually, full–time care is needed. The person may require help with daily activities, including bathing, dressing, eating and using the bathroom. Providing this support on a day–to–day basis can be exhausting. When considering how best to meet the needs of the person with Alzheimer’s disease, it is important to think about what’s best for the person while also evaluating the impact that care giving is having on your own well–being.
Experiencing some stress is part of everyday life. However, when symptoms of stress persist, they can be harmful. Providing care to a person with Alzheimer’s disease can take it’s toll on the caregiver. Caregivers are often at risk for physical and emotional problems. Those who provide care should be aware of this and take steps to care for themselves. Maintain physical health, stay active and make healthy food choices. Find time for activities you enjoy.
