September 21 marks World Alzheimer’s Day, a global effort to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. This day is also a reminder of the vital role caregivers play in the lives of their loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned caregiver or new to the role, understanding the disease and having practical advice for caregiving can make a difference for everyone’s quality of life.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Many people use the terms dementia and Alzheimer’s interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Dementia refers to any disease that impacts memory, thinking, and the ability to perform daily activities. Dementia affects each person differently and depends on the cause, other health conditions, and cognitive ability before getting dementia. More than 55 million people have dementia worldwide.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It is a specific brain disease that leads to the progressive decline of memory, thinking, and reasoning. Alzheimer disease may be the cause of up to 70% of dementia cases.
Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Each has its own symptoms and ways it develops over time. Knowing the differences is important because the care needed depends on the type.
Tips for caregivers
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is both rewarding and challenging. Informal caregivers spend about 5 hours per day taking care of loved ones with dementia. If you are one of them, here are seven tips to help you balance your role as caregiver while also taking care of yourself.
- Educate yourself. Stay informed about symptoms, treatments, and care strategies to anticipate changes and adapt caregiving.
- Establish routine. Regular schedules for meals, activities, and sleep can reduce confusion and anxiety. Help loved ones with to-do lists and set reminders.
- Simplify tasks. Break down daily activities into simple steps, offer to help, and use visual clues. Allow enough time to avoid stress and frustration.
- Communicate clearly. Use simple, straightforward language; speak slowly and maintain eye contact. Validate their emotions, ask for opinions, and show support.
- Prioritize self-care. Make time for your own health, whether that means taking breaks, seeking counseling, or connecting with other caregivers. Caring for someone with dementia is emotionally and physically draining.
- Seek support. Join a support group or connect with other caregivers as sharing experiences can provide comfort and practical advice.
- Plan respite care. For a few hours or a few days, respite care can allow you to decompress and recharge. Caregiving is a long-term commitment, and it’s essential to get away for a short-term rest.
It’s important to remember that as a caregiver, you are not alone. Most countries have at least one organization to provide support, education, and resources. The World Health Organization has collected global caregiver resources online. Home Care Assistance is also available to help; moving into memory care can be challenging and in-home caregivers can offer one-to-one care and companionship to ease anxieties.
World Alzheimer’s Day is a time to acknowledge the dedication and resilience of caregivers around the globe. Every day, in ways small and large, they impact the world – and make it a place full of love.
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Sources: WHO; Alzheimer’s Society; Alzheimers.org; Family Caregivers Alliance