Families
Dementia affects the whole family. It can bring a family together
or lead to difficulties. Since we are all individuals who have our own ways
of handling different circumstances, it is likely that members of a family
will have different views about what is best for the person who has dementia. Though
each person's view might be different, in most cases all family members want what
is best for their relative. Listening to each other, and especially to the wishes
of your relative who has Alzheimer's disease, will help you through what can be a
very difficult time.
Caregivers
Caring for a person who has Alzheimer's disease or a
related dementia can be both rewarding and challenging. If the person you
are providing care for is someone you are close to, you may be experiencing a
range of emotions, including:
-
Anger
-
Frustration
-
Exhaustion
-
Hopelessness
-
Grief
-
Guilt
-
Anxiety or worry
All of these emotions are normal. It is important that you take good care of yourself so that you are able to help the person you are caring for. Joining a support group of others who are also caring for a relative who has dementia or talking to someone at your local Alzheimer Society can help. To find out where a support program is happening near you, contact your local Alzheimer Society.
To learn more about Alzheimer care, please visit
the Alzheimer Society of Canada website.
|
