A New Year, a new attitude: Resolutions for caregivers

The New Year is a time for making changes. If you are a caregiver looking after a family member or friend living with dementia, it may seem impossible. But don't let the stress pile up until you burn out. Don't be a super hero! Your mental and physical health is just as important as the person with dementia. You owe it to yourself and to the person with dementia to review what is happening to each of you as the disease progresses.
 
Start by tackling issues you ignored or pushed aside.

Changing health status

• How has the person's condition changed over the last year?
• Is your care plan still useful for the current condition?
• Can you still continue to care for the person at home?
• What other care options exist? Have you discussed these issues with other family members?

Tips

• Be realistic! If you are afraid to leave the house, or are not getting enough sleep because of the care needs you must respond to, you may need to reconsider your caregiver situation.
• Consider hiring a personal support worker or taking advantage of respite care services.
• Keep your family updated. It's important to have family conversations to avoid tension or misunderstandings in the future.
• Talk to your doctor about what to expect over the next year.
• Contact your local Alzheimer Society for practical advice and support.

Financial and legal issues

• Do you have Power of Attorney for the individual in your care?
• Do you have the financial means for long-term care?
• How well do you manage your own finances?

Tips

• Plan now for the future and while the person in your care still has the mental capacity to make their own decisions.
• Talk to your family to confront any issues that could escalate down the road.
• Talk to your lawyer and financial advisor to make sure you have the authority to make financial and health care decisions.

Your emotional and physical well-being

• Are you feeling tired and run down?
• Do you have an outlet for yourself during difficult times?
• Are you feeling confused and overwhelmed by the number of tasks you are responsible for?

Tips

• Keep your own medical appointments current. Be open with your doctor about your situation and your feelings.
• Exercise, leisure activities and well-balanced diet are important to your overall health.
• De-clutter your mind by making a make a "to-do" and sticking to it.
• Delegate smaller or niggling tasks to family members, friends or neighbours.
• Try to find the humour in moments of frustration, and remember the person (and not the disease) for who they really are.
• Ask for help! Respite care, support groups, and day programs are some of the many support services accessible through your local Alzheimer Society. They can also connect you to other helpful resources in your community.