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Alzheimer's disease is devastating, not only for the 5.7 million Americans living with the disease, but also for the 16 million or more family members and friends who serve as caregivers. The care needs of people with Alzheimer's disease are considerable and increase over time – an average of four to eight years after diagnosis.
Many family caregivers juggle competing priorities, becoming very tense and stressed. Most could use help. Here in Missouri, there are 316,000 family caregivers. In November, National Alzheimer Awareness Month and National Family Caregiver Month, the Alzheimer's Association recognizes and honors Alzheimer's caregivers. We applaud these resilient men and women who do so much for those they love in these difficult times.
Caring for a loved one with a loss of memory can be rewarding and uplifting. It can also be emotionally, physically and financially draining. Caregivers must take care of themselves so that they can take better care of their loved ones. If you are a caregiver or if you know someone who cares for a loved one with dementia, make a note and share the following tips for becoming a healthy caregiver.
Know what community resources are available. Adult day programs, home assistance, nurse visits and meal delivery are just a few of the services that can help you manage your daily tasks. Contact the sections of the Alzheimer's Association or the Regional Agency on Aging to learn more about available resources.
Get help and find help. The Alzheimer's Association offers a number of services and programs to help caregivers.
A number of Alzheimer's Association support groups are designed to help you find comfort and reassure you with others who face similar situations.
The 24/7 Alzheimer Helpline (800.272.3900) puts you in touch with qualified professionals and provides you with reliable information and support for anyone who needs help.
The Alzheimer's Association also provides modest financial assistance to eligible family caregivers to cover the costs of respite (free time), products, equipment, security services and legal guidelines.
Move. Any form of physical activity can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Even a ten minute walk will help. If possible, encourage your loved one with the disease to join you for an activity you love, such as gardening or dancing.
Become an educated caregiver. As the disease progresses, new skills in care may be needed. The Alzheimer's Association offers programs to help you better understand and cope with the behavioral and personality changes that often accompany Alzheimer's disease. It can be helpful to talk to other members of a support group about how they face the challenges of the disease and uncertainty about the future.
Take care of yourself. Visit your doctor regularly. Try to eat well, exercise and get enough rest. Ensuring that you are healthy can help you become a better caregiver. Respite funds can be used to help you take time to see a doctor, go shopping and get more time alone.
During Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month and National Family Helper Month, the Alzheimer's Association is calling on all residents of Colombia to reach out and lend a helping hand. Take the time to support a health care provider you know. Go shopping, help with housework, or give caregivers a break by spending time with the person with dementia. These small gestures can make all the difference and provide well-deserved support to those who give so much.
To learn more about the stress of caregivers and the programs and services offered by the Alzheimer's Association, call 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/greatermissouri.
To better serve the Columbia area, the Alzheimer's Association office was moved to a more accessible location. The office is now located at 2609 E. Broadway, Suite 119, MO 65201 Columbia.
Janette Nichols is a Community Resource Specialist and represents the Greater Missouri Section of the Alzheimer's Association in the Columbia office.
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