Alzheimer’s Dementia Caregiving
By Linda Fodrini‐Johnson, MA, MFT, CMC
Founder & Chairman, Eldercare Services
Almost 80% of all caregiving is provided by families. For survival and quality of life, for both the person with the illness and the primary family caregivers, the following tips are vital for good health and Alzheimer’s dementia caregiving.
- Understand the illness & learn behavioral interventions (take classes). We offer many at Eldercare or try your local Alzheimer’s Association – ask about the “Savvy Caregiver Program”
- Continue to participate in what gives your life meaning and purpose
- Find a support group for Alzheimer’s dementia caregiving
- Practice mindfulness activities (meditation, prayer, yoga)
- Stay healthy – eat fresh food and exercise every day
- Share the care – nobody can work 24/7 without a break
Three of the characteristics that distinguish interventions that have been found particularly effective based on research are 1) assistance with one person (a Care Coordinator/Care Manager) over long periods of time 2) approach dementia care as an issue for the entire family and 3) train family caregivers in management of behavioral problems.
Your loved one will get the best care if you care for you… if you are “frozen” in your tracks with depression that stops you from getting the support you need, start with a therapist or your physician now.
