Looking After You - The Carer
Carers have to look after themselves or they can become physically and emotionally run down. Some carers give up the activities they enjoy, including family and friends and then find themselves socially isolated and lonely. Some carers give up work to care for their loved one and soon find their life's savings dwindling very quickly.
Remember: To take care of the person with Alzheimers you have to take care of yourself.
Have regular medical check-ups to make sure your health is not deteriorating.
Your Feelings
The constant demands of caring can affect your feelings and emotions. These are some of the feelings that can surface from time to time:
- Guilt
- Anger
- Frustration
- Affection
- Sadness
- Love
- Helplessness
- Responsibility
- Stress
- Satisfaction
Perhaps you can add to the list.
Stress and Coping
It is important to talk over your feelings. Western Alzheimers have personnel trained in all aspects of caring for someone with Alzheimers Disease and will also arrange get-togethers with other carers in the same situation.
Sharing the burden and hearing other peoples experiences will half the burden.
Each person responds to crises, demands and pressures of caring in his or her own way. You do not have to be alone.
- Talk to Western Alzheimers
- Look for help from family members
- Join a support group
How to stay healthy
- Go for regular walks
- Watch your diet
- Keep in contact with friends
- Do some activity that you enjoy - read a book go shopping etc.,
Facilities and Services to help you
- Western Alzheimers have services and facilities to care for People who suffer from Alzheimer's Disease:
- Respite Care Homes in Mayo and Galway - This will give you a total break of a week or two at regular intervals
- In-Home Support Service - A care assistant will visit your home on a weekly basis to give you 'Time Out'
- Day Care - This service will give you a day to yourself.
Reference: Harvard Health Letter Special Report, Commonwealth, Dept., of Health & Family Services, (The Carer Experience)