Whether you’re a spouse, child, or loved one, caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a daunting task that will impact both your professional and personal life. You’ll have to provide care for a loved one during this difficult time, while also making sure that you stay up to the task. Below are five tips to help you cope while giving care to a loved one with Alzheimer’s:
Join a Support Group
Many Alzheimer’s caregivers feel that they’re suffering alone, but the fact is that Alzheimer’s is a disease that impacts 15 million caregivers in the United States. Since the disease is so prevalent, there are numerous support groups out there to help caregivers cope with the stress they feel. You’ll connect with people who are going through the same experiences as you, and hopefully, you can help each other through this difficult time.
Accept Help from Family and Friends
Just because you’re a primary caregiver for an Alzheimer’s patient, it doesn’t mean that you can’t ask for and accept help from your family and friends. Sharing the burden can help you avoid burnout and give you a chance to seek respite care during those times when you must focus on your own life.
Stay Healthy
You won’t be any use to your loved one if you wear yourself down and become sick. Check in with your general practitioner regularly to make sure you’re staying healthy, and try to stay active with light exercise to ensure you stay in shape. You should also focus on your sleep habits as a lack of sleep can lead to some serious health consequences down the road.
Speak with a Therapist
Sometimes the stress of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is too much to bear and can lead to anxiety and depression. When this happens, you won’t be able to provide the best care possible for your loved one. That’s why it’s important that you seek out a therapist you feel comfortable speaking to, and if possible, has experience working with people in similar situations.
Consult with an Experienced Elder Law Attorney
Families and caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients often struggle to find the right care centers for their loved ones and ultimately how to pay for those care centers. An experienced elder law attorney can help you navigate the complex world of public benefits to make sure you can find and pay for the care your loved one requires.
If you have more questions about caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, or if you’d like to speak with an experienced elder law attorney regarding Alzheimer’s planning, please contact our Ohio elder law office at 877-653-3450 to schedule a complimentary initial consultation.