Caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or severe memory loss can be an around the clock responsibility. During National Family Caregivers Month and National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, we recognize the challenges many family caregivers face.
Looking after a loved one can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience and at times it can also be overwhelming, challenging, or lonely. What challenges do family caregivers face, and how do they manage them day and night? Below are four tips for navigating caregiving.
- When others offer help it can be difficult to think of what you need at that moment. Make a list of ways that others can help and keep it with you. That way when someone offers help you can give them something tangible to do.
- Individuals with dementia can experience agitation, paranoia, or become aggressive. Often their reactions can appear irrational. It is important to remember that there are reasons and triggers behind their behaviors. Even if their thoughts or beliefs may not be based in fact, always remember that they are very real to them. Responding with compassion and letting them know that they are safe and surrounded by people who care about them can help deescalate behaviors.
- When you are consumed with the day-to-day needs of your loved one it can be difficult to see anything beyond their care. Take heart and know that you are making memories with them today that you will look back on fondly when they are no longer with you.
- There will be times when you doubt your abilities or second guess yourself. Be patient and kind to yourself.
Caregivers throughout southwest Michigan community share their personal experiences.
“You’ve got to be patient and not disagree. When caring for someone with dementia, don’t argue but go along with them. Use kind and loving language.”- Ray Lietz
“It’s not ONE day at a time, start with breakfast and work your way toward lunch…just a little at a time.” - Stacey Gordon
“Dad wanted to drive but was too confused to be safe. When we would tell him he would get upset. We decided to take his truck key off his key ring. Now we give him his keys, he goes to his truck for a while, and everyone is safe and happy.” - Anonymous
“They mimic your emotions. Always smile, stay calm, and love wholeheartedly.” - Cassandra Friend
“10 years ago my husband started with memory issues. I attended seminars to learn of symptoms and progression of dementia that were very helpful. I’ve read numerous books, the most helpful being, The 56 Hour Day. Five years ago we decided he shouldn’t be left alone, at that time I thought I may as well be in prison, however, I kept reaching out for help. I found a wonderful service providing care during the day, plus hired caregivers to give me time away.” - Betty Snider
“I have traveled this journey before, it’s never easy. We are learning over and over, everyone is different. I have to get away for a while, half a day or a few hours. You have to have a strong support group behind you.” - Betty Jackson
“Mom loved to cook but it wasn’t safe for her to use the stove. We disconnected the stove so she could still turn the knobs and do the actions of cooking without the danger of her leaving it on and starting a fire.”- Anonymous
“Please know that you are not alone, that you are extremely valuable.” – Dana Reeves
Support groups provide participants with the opportunity to talk with others who are experiencing the same joys and challenges that caregivers face, to cope with the demands of caregiving, to give and receive encouragement, and to be empowered and strengthened as a caregiver. For more information on caregiving support groups in the area visit www.caring-circle.org
Caregiver Support Groups
Caring Circle, St. Joseph
Every third Tuesday of the month, 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
4025 Health Park Lane, St Joseph, MI 49085
Caring Circle, South Haven
Every second Thursday of the month, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.
05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090
Buchanan Senior Center
Every first Wednesday of the month, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.
810 Rynearson Street, Buchanan, MI 49107