In many cases the primary caregivers are family members who are close to the patient. Whether the individual with Alzheimer’s is an older parent or the wife or husband it will become increasingly apparent that there are changes taking place that make the dependency of the patient new emotional ground to navigate. Understanding and preparing for this issue will help everyone concerned to learn to cope with the times that frustration, confusion or even anger make an appearance.

It is essential in matters of long term care that practical issues take the forefront. This will provide a mechanism for coping with the highly emotional aspect of a long term illness. So it follows that one of the groundworks for long term care will be establishing a solid routine for the patient. Regular meal times, bath times, times for medication and times for other enjoyable activities help both the patient and caregiver to move forward. Creating a calm, clean and if need be quiet environment as well can help the Alzheimer’s patient focus a little better and encourages cooperation. As well, when it becomes obvious that some tasks are becoming difficult to perform, for example, tying one’s shoes – the caregiver can look for a solution and substitute perhaps some slip-ons. Even issues such as having comfortable clothes can sometimes help ease a situation.

As much as possible the caregiver will want to project a positive and cheerful attitude. Often, as this disease progresses, the patient will become frustrated with their inability to perform even simple tasks. Everyone is benefited if the patient is given the secure feeling that there is no pressure or rush. That they are in a safe environment and will be treated with care and dignity. Though some patients may not be aware of what their behavior is incurring they may certainly pick up on hearing negative remarks and understand that they are causing problems. This will only add to their anger and frustration at having failed in some way. So if a caregiver needs to let out some of their frustration it is best to seek out good friends and perhaps people in similar situations that can really understand and give them the emotional and practical support they need.

It is vitally important that whoever is the primary caregiver take a break when they start to feel that matters are taking a toll on their emotional or physical health. This will require finding suitable people who are able to step in from time to time and allow the caregiver to step away for a while. As well, it is suggested that searching out local support groups (and there are increasingly more of them) will help the caregiver to give voice to the frustrations and anger in an environment where others truly understand what they are going through.

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