A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease raises many questions and concerns, especially for those who are caregivers for the Alzheimer’s patient.  The most important and helpful thing a caregiver can do is become educated about the illness.  By gaining knowledge of the disease, it can help caregivers learn what to expect, how they can help and also understand that each person and case is different.

Seek information from reliable sources, such as doctors, books, other caregivers, and online resources such as the Alzheimer’s Association website (alz.org).

It is also essential for caregivers to seek support—from family, friends and/or other individuals or families in the community also caring for an Alzheimer’s patient. Alzheimer’s changes the relationship you once had with your loved one, and it’s normal to experience a whole range of emotions as you grieve that loss. It’s common for caregivers to feel guilty when they get frustrated, but having a friend or family member that you can talk to that truly understands the situation can be an essential outlet for a caregiver. Support groups in your area are a great opportunity to connect locally with others serving as caregivers for individuals with the disease.

To get a list of Alzheimer’s Disease support groups occurring in your community, call the Western North Carolina Alzheimer’s Association chapter at 800-272-3900.The Rockingham County support group meets the second Monday of each month at Penn Nursing Center, 1-2:30 pm. Call 951-4674 to find out more.

Often, caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients will neglect their own health, and experience stress overload due to grief and loss issues, financial concerns, and other factors associated with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis within the family.  Therefore, it is important for caregivers to find ways to take care of themselves. Something as simple as taking a walk can get you away from the stress and help you get some much-needed rest. Everyone finds relaxation in a different way, but having a team of family and friends that can step in for you for an hour can help you find the time to focus on your own well-being.

Spokesperson Background:

Patricia Wright is the chaplain at Cone Health’s Annie Penn Hospital in Reidsville.