Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Amy Hoffmann Schenk, RN, BSN, MS Ed, Community Engagement Lead Neuropsychiatric Research Center of SW Florida
November is Alzheimer’s Awareness month and national family caregiver’s month. Family caregivers play a critical role in providing support, physical and emotional care for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. The majority of individuals who have Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia live at home.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are over 6.9 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. That is about the size of the total population of the state of Indiana.
That number projected to increase to 13 million by the year 2050. In the state of Florida, it is estimated that the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease is around 580,000. Alzheimer’s disease does discriminate, with women and individuals of color having a higher risk:
• Approximately 2/3 of individuals with Alzheimer’s are women
• Black Americans are about twice as likely as White Americans to have Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia
• Hispanic individuals are one and a half times more likely to have Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia
As mentioned previously, the vast majority of those providing care and support for those with Alzheimer’s disease are family members, friends and neighbors. Anyone who has ever been a caregiver understands that while caregiving can be rewarding, it can also be challenging.
Caregiving can lead to stress and burnout. Caregiving, particularly for those caring for individuals with cognitive impairment can be especially stressful. The Alzheimer’s Association lists signs to watch out for if you are a caregiver:
Denial about the disease and its effects on the person who has been diagnosed. “I know my wife is going to get better.”
Anger at the person with Alzheimer’s and/or frustration that he or she can’t do the things they used to be able to do. “He knows how to get dressed, he is just being stubborn.”
Social withdrawal from friends and activities that used to make you feel good. “I don’t care about visiting with the neighbors anymore.”
Anxiety about the future and facing another day, “What happens if he needs more care than I can provide?”
Depression that breaks your spirit and affects your ability to cope. “I just don’t care anymore.”
Exhaustion that makes it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks. “I am 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 actions. “Just leave me alone!”
Lack of concentration that makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks. ”I was so busy, I forgot my appointment.”
Health problems that begin to take a mental and physical toll. “I can’t remember the last time I felt good.”
According to the NIH, caregivers report lower levels of physical activity, poorer nutrition and sleep. In addition, sleep disturbances, as well as heart disease, anxiety, depression and challenges with memory and paying attention have all been reported in research.
What do caregivers need? They need to know what resources are available. Caregivers need emotional support and hands on assistance with caregiving. They need to be acknowledged and appreciated for their role in caregiving. They need time for self-care and breaks from their caregiving responsibilities.
Here are some tips from the NIH for caregivers:
• Do your best to get organized, make notes, keep important caregiving information in one place, and create a daily routine
• Accept help. Many times, caregivers hear “let me know if I can help” or “call me if you need anything”. Create a list of things that you can let others do for you. If they ask, you will have your list ready. Things like picking up prescriptions groceries, helping with household tasks, spending time with your loved one when you run errands may be places to start. Create a running list of things that if you did not have to do, would make your life easier. Let others help!
• Follow up on your own health needs with your primary care provider
• Consider joining a support group to connect with others in your situation. Groups can provide solutions, support and a sense of community
• Do the best you can to eat healthy and get in some moderate exercise
• Take a break to do something you enjoy. Call a friend, read a book, sit outside to enjoy nature, keep up with a fun hobby. Invest in yourself
Most importantly, give yourself grace and forgiveness. You are doing the best you can. Know that your efforts are appreciated.
If you are concerned about your memory, connect with the experienced team at the Neuropsychiatric Research center at 239-939-7777. We have a proven track record of helping individuals and families navigate memory related challenges. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. #MemoriesMatter.
Contact NPRC at 239-939-7777 today for your free memory screen.
References:
Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures Report | Alzheimer’s Association
Caregiving | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)
