One of the greatest challenges of Alzheimer’s disease is the personal and financial burden it places on people with the disease, their families, caregivers and friends. Alzheimer’s patients in the severe stage of the disease are often completely dependent on others for care. An early diagnosis may help families as they make treatment, financial and personal decisions for their loved ones.

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease can be overwhelming, and research shows that caregivers who do not have an adequate support network in place are at increased risk for depression and illness.

In 2010, 14.9 million (unpaid) caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias provided an estimated 17 billion hours of unpaid care, a contribution to the nation valued at more than US$202 billion. In addition, for every US$100 the government spends on Alzheimer’s research, it spends more than US$25,000 on care for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Alzimer’s Caregivers Facts

Alan Arnette with mother, Ida

The biggest challenge of Alan’s caregiving experience:
The most difficult moment was taking my mom from her house and moving her into the nursing home, which we called “the home.” My mom never cried when I was growing up; but when I told her to pack her things, she started to cry and said, “I don’t want to leave my home.” It is impossible to explain, but I think she understood what was going on and that it was the right thing to do.

Another challenge I faced in this experience was the difficulty making decisions on treatment. Since there is no universal program, it can be frustrating. In the end, I just wanted her to enjoy her last days.

Alan's advice for family caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's disease:
The most important thing is to take care of yourself because you can’t take care of anyone else if you’re not OK yourself. Also, know your limitations; it’s important to know what you can’t do even if you’d like to do it. Remember that Alzheimer’s is a slow disease so you need to find a coping mechanism because it’s a long journey. There are a ton of resources for family caregivers – reach out to them. Reach out to friends and family for support. Finally, consult the best people you can and make the most informed decision possible; be an active part of the decision-making process.

Visit the National Family Caregiver Association for more tips and information for family caregivers.

National Family Caregivers Association

  1. 1.Caregiving is a job and respite is your earned right. Reward yourself with respite breaks often.
  2. 2.Watch out for signs of depression, and don’t delay in getting professional help when you need it.
  3. 3.When people offer to help, accept the offer and suggest specific things that they can do.
  4. 4.Educate yourself about your loved one’s condition and how to communicate effectively with doctors.
  5. 5.There’s a difference between caring and doing. Be open to technologies and ideas that promote your loved one’s independence.
  1. 6.Trust your instincts. Most of the time they’ll lead you in the right direction.
  2. 7.Caregivers often do a lot of lifting, pushing, and pulling. Be good to your back.
  3. 8.Grieve for your losses. Allow yourself to dream new dreams.
  4. 9.Seek support from other caregivers. There is great strength in knowing you are not alone.
  5. 10.Stand up for your rights as a caregiver and a citizen.

To learn more about caregiving please visit the NFCA website, http://www.thefamilycaregiver.org/