How to Cope With a Parent that Has Alzheimer’s

Finding out that one of your parents has Alzheimer’s disease can be both horrifying and stressful. Alzheimer’s affects the brain and causes memory, speech and sometimes behavior issues. The disease can be extremely hard on those who have it and those who are caring for them. Watching a parent with Alzheimer’s steadily decline can be heart-breaking, but there are some things that can make dealing with the disease easier on you and your parent.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Ask for a second opinion. While your parent’s doctor may be correct, it could be that something else is causing depression (which can present as many different symptoms, especially in the elderly) or another disease, such as sundowners.
2. Ask questions. Even if you think you know a lot about Alzheimer’s disease, you may be surprised at all of the information that you might not be aware of. The doctor can supply you with reading material that can help you understand what your parent is going through and how it will progress. Some Alzheimer’s patients progress slowly, while others will progress at an accelerated pace.
3. Contact organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association. They can give you information about everything from the newest medications to where to find caregiving resourses.
4. Look for a support group in your area. Talking to other people about the situation can give a way to share your concerns and feelings. Taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s is not an easy task, even if you are only doing it part time. In a support group you will be able to share your experiences and learn from the experiences of others. If you are unable to find a support group in your area, search online.
5. Give yourself time to breath and don’t forget to have patience with your parent and yourself. This can be a hard time of adjustment for you and your parent. If the Alzheimer’s is in the first stages, most likely your parent understands what is happening and is probably unsure of what is ahead for them. Reassure them that you will support them. This may be hard if you are still struggling with the thought of losing your parent. Take time to stabilize yourself and focus on what is best for the both of you.
6. Create a routine for your parent. It will make them feel a sense of stability and make things easier on you. Don’t expect the routine to be picked up right away. It takes time to learn to use a schedule and it will be more difficult for the individual with Alzheimer’s. Be patient with them and with yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep pictures of your parent's loved ones around the house.
• Be understanding when they don't remember what or whom you are talking about.
• Give yourself a break from time to time.
• Never argue with Alzheimer's patients when they don't remember someone or something. Remember their world is different now.