Taking Care of the Caregiver

(A reprint from the of the Alzheimer's Association Vermont and New Hampshire Chapter Newsletter)

As the number of individuals with Alzheimer's disease continues to rise, the number of caregivers continues to rise. And that means that there is a growing number of individuals who are at risk for developing caregiver stress as demands grow on their time, their resources, their sleep, their health and their emotional strength. Too often, the caregivers don't recognize the toll being taken on them as they care for a loved one. Too much stress can be damaging to both the caregiver and the one being cared for.

That makes it so important for caregiver stress to be recognized and alleviated before the toll becomes too great. The signs of caregiver stress include:

• Denial about the disease and its effect on the person who has been diagnosed;
• Anger inappropriately directed at the person with Alzheimer's as well as at others;
• Social Withdrawal from friends and activities that once brought enjoyment;
• Anxiety about facing another day and what the future holds;
• Depression begins to break the caregiver's spirit and ability to cope;
• Exhaustion making it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks;
• Sleeplessness caused by the constant list of concerns that seem overwhelming;
• Irritability leading to moodiness and negative responses and reactions;
• Lack of Ability to Concentrate making it difficult to complete necessary tasks; and
• Health Problems develop as the caregiver ignores his/her own needs.

If you are a caregiver or close to a caregiver, it is important to remain alert to noticing if these symptoms are occurring. If so, there are several important steps that should be taken. The caregiver must take care of his or her own physical and mental health by taking steps such as:

• Having a medical check-up and speaking with their physician about stress;
• Learning about available community resources by contacting the local Alzheimer's Association chapter;
• Taking care of him or herself by eating properly, getting exercise, rest and relaxation;
• Seeking help of professionals, friends and family;
• Participating in a support group to learn that they are not alone and to share valuable information and insight;
• Doing financial and legal planning early on to avoid complications and stress later;
• Being realistic about what they can and cannot do rather than taking everything on alone;
• Giving themselves credit rather than guilt and recognize that they are doing all they can with their loved one;
• Calling the Helpline Anytime because they may need important information immediately or may just need to talk with someone who understands.
  1-800-272-3900.

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