Taking Care of Caregivers
By Jane Aspaas

An estimated 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease-more than double the number in 1980. By 2050, that number could range from 11.3 million to 16 million.  There are estimated to be 17,000 people with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders in South Dakota alone.

        Alzheimer's disease not only destroys the minds and memories of millions of Americans, it also can have a traumatic and devastating impact on their nearly 20 million family members and caregivers. 

Caregivers spend an estimated 69 to 100 hours a week - as much as two full-time jobs - caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease.  More than 80 percent of Alzheimer caregivers report that they frequently experience high levels of stress, and nearly half say they suffer from depression. Many caregivers don't recognize their needs, fail to do anything about them or simply don't know where to turn for help.

The Alzheimer's Association urges caregivers to learn to recognize and take steps to reduce stress.

10 Signs of Caregiver Stress
        Denial about the disease and its effect on the person diagnosed. "I know my mom is going to get better."
        Anger at the person with Alzheimer’s or others; anger that few treatments and no cure currently exist and that people don’t understand what’s going on. "If he asks me that question one more time, I’ll scream!"
        Social withdrawal from friends and activities that once brought pleasure. "I don’t care about getting together with the neighbors anymore."
        Anxiety regarding what the future holds. "What happens when he needs more care than I can provide?"
        Depression that begins to break your spirit and affect your ability to cope. "I don’t care anymore."
        Exhaustion that makes it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks. "I’m too tired for this."
        Sleeplessness caused by a never-ending list of concerns. "What if she wanders out of the house or falls and hurts herself?"
        Irritability that leads to moodiness and triggers negative responses and reactions. "Leave me alone!"
        Lack of concentration that makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks. "I was so busy, I forgot we had an appointment."
        Health problems that begin to take a toll both mentally and physically. "I can’t remember the last time I felt good."

Get Into Action to Reduce Stress
  1. Get a diagnosis as early as possible. Early diagnosis helps you better manage the present and prepare for the future.
  2. Know what resources are available. Adult day care, in-home assistance and visiting nurses are just some of the services that can help. Check with the Alzheimer’s Association office nearest you.
  3. Become an educated caregiver. Knowledge helps you cope with many of the behaviors and personality changes.
  4. Get help. The support of family, friends and community resources can be an enormous help. Ask for help. We have 23 support groups throughout the state of South Dakota providing confidential and safe places for learning and sharing.  If stress becomes overwhelming, seek professional advice.
  5. Take care of yourself. Watch diet and exercise and get plenty of rest. Use respite services to take time off for shopping, a movie or an uninterrupted visit with a friend.
  6. Manage your stress. Stress can cause physical problems (blurred vision, stomach irritation, high blood pressure) and changes in behavior (irritability, lack of concentration, loss of appetite). Note symptoms and consult a physician.
  7. Accept changes. Acceptance can make transitions easier.
  8. Do legal and financial planning. Consult an attorney about durable powers of attorney, living wills and trusts, future medical care, housing and other key considerations. If appropriate, involve the person with Alzheimer’s and other family members in planning and decisions.
  9. Be realistic. Neither you nor the person with Alzheimer’s can control many of the behaviors that will occur. Grieve for the losses you experience, but also focus on memories and positive moments.
  10. Give yourself credit, not guilt. Remember, you’re doing the best that you can. Your loved one needs you, and you are there.

Additional Resources for Caregivers

The Alzheimer's Association offers information resources, programs and services for caregivers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Call locally at (605) 339-4543 or (800) 272-3900 or click www.alz.org.

In addition, caregivers can team up in the fight against Alzheimer's by participating in Memory Walk®, the Alzheimer's Association's national signature event to help those battling Alzheimer's disease.