One of the best tips I think an alzheimer’s caregiver can rely on is to educate themselves. An educated caregiver can make all the difference in dealing with the stress of the unknown. For instance, many caregivers are unaware that there are support groups available which can be invaluable to the caregiver. There may also be respite services that are available, for free, in certain areas of which caregivers are completely unaware. You can contact your local Alzheimer’s Association for caregiving information, support group information, and treatment options.
Some groups will teach about problem solving and management skills. For instance, I have a client whose father has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and, after her mother passed away, she would tell her father that his spouse died every time he asked where she was. He could not remember that she had passed away, and every time his daughter told him that mom had died, he re-lived her death as if it was the first time each time.
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Tips
There is no reason to put someone with Alzheimer’s through this awful news, over and over. Tell them once, and if they ask again the next day, or day after, distract them or tell them something they want to hear rather than upsetting them. If you are interested in learning more tips for caregivers caring for Alzheimer’s patients, click here for more information – http://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/publication/caregiver-guide-tips-caregivers-people-alzheimers-disease#intro.