Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be physically and emotionally draining. Physical exhaustion paired with the heartbreak of seeing your loved one slowly forget who you are is a recipe for caregiver burnout.

In addition to the tips listed below for avoiding burnout, remember that feelings of frustration, anger, inadequacy, being trapped, resentment, and as a result of these, guilt, are all normal emotions to experience as a caregiver.

Talk about these feelings with someone who will understand, whether that person is a therapist, a fellow Alzheimer’s caregiver or someone at a support organization. Stifling these emotions isn’t good for your mental health, and can make you a less effective caregiver.

Also remember that taking a break is healthy – not selfish. Consider regular respite care for your loved one, which will give you the opportunity to rest and come back to your caregiver role refreshed.

Read on to learn more about caregiving and avoiding burnout.