Honoring Caregivers of Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease during National Family Caregivers Month
11/27/2018
November is “National Family Caregivers Month.” For caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s Disease, the disease can take a toll. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, here are some tips to help support those who have relatives coping with Alzheimer’s Disease:
- Educate yourself about Alzheimer’s disease. Learn about its effects and how to respond.
- Stay in touch. A card, call or visit can show you care.
- Be patient. Adjusting to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is an ongoing process and each person reacts differently.
- Offer a shoulder to lean on. Simply offering your support and friendship can provide comfort.
- Include the person with dementia in conversation. It’s important to engage the person, even as his or her communication skills decline.
- Help the family tackle its to-do list. Prepare a meal, run an errand or provide a ride.
- Invite family members to join you in leisure activities. Invite them to take a walk or participate in other enjoyable activities.
- Offer a reprieve. Spend time with the person living with dementia so family members can enjoy time alone or with friends.
- Be flexible. The family may need time to assess its needs. If they don't accept your offer for support or assistance right away, try asking again later.
- Get involved with the Alzheimer’s cause. Show your support for the family by joining the fight against the disease.
“It’s important caregivers receive support during the difficult time of caring for a loved one,” Merit Health Behavioral Health Director Scott Jones said. “At Merit Health, we offer a wide range of services to assist in the care of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as other mental and emotional challenges.”
For more information, call (601) 824-8575 or visit mymeritdoctor.com.
To learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association, call 800.272.3900 or visit alz.org.
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