More often than not, the responsibilities, problems, and feelings of a caregiver aren’t taken into consideration by those around them. If someone hasn’t told you you’re doing a good job in taking care of your loved one, read this list often to reassure yourself, and take this time to give yourself a pat on the back for doing the best job you can do.
There are times when you reach the point in your caregiving when you need to learn to ignore problematic people and situations. Continue to do what you’ve been doing for your loved one and make sure you take care of yourself as well. You cannot let people who don’t understand Alzheimer's Disease, and its many ups and downs, upset you and possibly endanger your health. If that happens, there would be no one to care for your loved one.
To all Alzheimer’s caregivers: Take a deep breath, read the 40 reminders often, and pat yourself on the back for sharing this disease of crossroads with your loved one until the road wanders no more. Always remember: With Alzheimer’s Disease, the past is no longer, there is no future, and there is only each moment. Cherish those moments, for they may be the last.
For more information about Alzheimer’s Disease visit the Alzheimer’s Association website.
Article comments
1 - Vikk Simmons
As a caregiver to two highly independent seniors in their 90s, although neither has Alzheimer's, I can relate to any number of issues raised by the author. While it's good that so much attention is given to publishing books for caregivers who are dealing with specific problems, I seldom find anything that talks to the tensions and stresses of daily caregiving of aging parents. With a generation that is caught between two generations, caregiving is fast becoming a lifestyle. More and more will be thrust into situations where they are totally unprepared and unable to find adequate help fast enough.