Alzheimer’s Caregivers: It’s OK to Take Time for Yourself

Being a caregiver is one of the hardest yet most rewarding things to do. My Mom cared for both of her parents while teaching full time and raising her family. Looking back and knowing what I know now I realize how amazing she was. When my grandma passed away my grandfather moved in with us. My Mom gave up teaching to stay home and care for her father. She did have siblings in the local area and they did help out, but to be the primary caretaker, nobody quite understands until you become yourself. Someone always had to be home and with two teenagers who wanted no part of staying home it wasn't easy. My Mom was tired and yes cranky. She had every right to be. I remember her saying, "I can't put him in a home." Working in the healthcare industry and talking with Mom, nobody was there to help, to tell her it was OK to have a companion come in and care for her Dad while she took some time with her family or just for herself. If you don't take care of yourself, who is going to take care of your loved one? You need to make time for yourself every day!

Private duty homecare (also referred to as companion services and Non-Medical Home Care) and an Adult Day Care center are great options. If you have tried either of these services or have more ideas, please share them so we can all learn.