Alzheimer's Caregiver Stress
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming
at times. You love this person and want to give them the best life possible,
but it can be tiring even at the best of times. From the added chores of
assisting them with daily tasks to the stress of dealing with wandering at
night, you cannot hold up to the challenge without taking care of yourself,
too. Here are some tips on how to manage stress while caring for someone with
Alzheimer’s.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Caregivers Stress
Caring for any aging loved one can result in caregiver
stress, but it becomes even more likely when that person has been diagnosed
with Alzheimer’s. Because this is a progressive disease, the person will
continue to require more care. One of the causes of Alzheimer’s stress is the
worry you have when you aren’t with the person. Maybe they forget to take their
medicine. What if they didn’t remember to turn off the stove? Or they got lost
when they went outside.
Add in your extra responsibilities in helping your family
member with tasks that used to be routine, like bathing, dressing, medications
and eating, and it’s no wonder caregivers feel stressed out. However, there are
some ways you can manage this stress.
Recognize Caregiver Stress
Alzheimer’s caregiver stress doesn’t just happen overnight. It comes on slowly, building over time as you continue to care for your loved one. Some signs that you are suffering from caregiver stress include the following:
• Anger at the loved one
• Withdrawing from social events
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Exhaustion
• Insomnia even when you're tired
• Irritability
• Inability to concentrate
• Physical health problems
How to Manage Stress
It can be difficult to know what to do to deal with the
stress when you know your loved one cannot care for themselves and they aren’t
going to get better. However, you must learn to manage your stress for you and
your family member.
Find out about community resources. You may be able to find
adult daycare or home health which will assist you in caring for your loved
one. Meal delivery services can take one task off your list.
Learn about the disease. Even people who understand the
basics about Alzheimer’s may not always be prepared for its progression. Get
educated so you know what to expect. It also helps you decide if there may be a
time when you can no longer continue caregiving.
One of the most important things you can do as a caregiver
is to take care of yourself. Take a break and have a friend or family member
watch your loved one for a couple of hours. You need time to relax and sleep
without worrying or you won’t be able to continue with this crazy routine. You
also should contact a doctor if you’re noticing health issues that may have
arisen from the stress of caregiving.
Being a caregiver of an Alzheimer’s patient is not easy, but
you can handle it better if you learn how to manage the stress. Follow these
techniques and tips and give your best to yourself, your family and your
elderly loved one.
Sources:
http://www.alz.org/national/documents/brochure_caregiverstress.pdf

