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Alzheimer’s disease care can take an emotional toll on family members and other caregivers. Unfortunately, it becomes easy to neglect your own health and wellness as a loved one's abilities decline, causing feelings of frustration. To manage an Alzheimer's diagnosis's emotional effects and make the care process less stressful, follow these suggestions.

Coping Tips for Family Members of Those With Alzheimer's

1. Give Yourself Time to Feel

Take time to process what you’re feeling about your loved one’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, and encourage other family members to do the same. Feel free to cry, work through feelings of anger and disbelief, and experience general grief, as repressing emotions can cause various mental, emotional, and physical health problems.

2. Join a Support Group

alzheimer's disease careResearch Alzheimer's disease care support groups in your area to continue the coping process. Share stories with others experiencing the same issues, and listen to their advice. By talking with people in similar situations, you'll realize you aren't alone. This will help reduce common caregiver uneasy feelings, including those concerning hopelessness and isolation.

3. Find Fun Activities to Do

Look for fun ways to engage your loved one, such as listening to favorite music, looking at photo albums, taking walks, planting flowers, feeding birds, and drinking hot chocolate. Many recommended activities for Alzheimer's patients also help stimulate the brain and encourage memory recall.

4. Practice Self-Care

Providing quality care becomes challenging when you feel tired, irritable, and unfocused, so carve out time for yourself. Do whatever helps you feel great, such as reading, hiking, crafting, dancing, meditating, or watching favorite shows. This allows you to provide the best care possible and avoid negative feelings.

 

If professional Alzheimer’s disease care will help you tend to your loved one’s cognitive needs, contact Bethany St. Joseph Corporation in La Crosse, WI. This skilled nursing and assisted living corporation’s communities offer housing solutions for seniors, including those who require memory care, pastoral care, occupational therapy, and comfort and palliative support. Call (608) 788-5700 today with any questions you have, or learn more about the communities online.

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