GREENSBORO, N.C. — As much as we talk about early signs of the disease, prevention, and treatment. We don’t talk about the impact of caregivers on those who are struggling with Alzheimer’s. Most caretakers are the spouse or adult children of someone who has Alzheimer’s. It’s hard and heartbreaking to see your mom, dad, or spouse who is struggling with the disease. It’s personal. This means that their struggle is your struggle because they’re mom, dad, or your spouse.
As a caretaker, you experience various emotions, from sadness to anger. And because of the memory issues involved in Alzheimer’s, your relationship with your loved one changes because they can’t remember or remember briefly.
One thing that caretakers should keep in mind, which seems obvious and yet difficult to accept, is that your loved one’s abilities will change over time. How they communicate and interact with you will change because of the disease, and it’s important to hold onto the memories you’ve created. It’s a challenge for your loved one to lose their independence. With memory issues, they may not remember why certain decisions are made, like why they can’t drive, cook, or live by themselves. Sometimes, they feel like a burden to those taking care of them. And during tough times, remember that it’s the disease, not them as a person. When words are tough, and they get frustrated, use nonverbal communication such as warm gestures, facial expressions, smiles, and touches on the arm or hand. You can get a little closer if they’re okay with the proximity to provide warmth and company.
Caretakers need help and breaks for their well-being. Emotional support is crucial because it’s mentally and physically exhausting to care for someone whose cognitive abilities decline and who needs constant monitoring.
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