Everyone experiences stress. It is said to be the body’s nonspecific response to any demand. The most important thing about stress is how we cope with it before it becomes distress. |
Symptoms: 
-unusual sleep patterns (too much or too little)
-backaches
-headaches
-depression
-change in behavior
-change in appetite
- fatigue
- irritability
- muscle pain
- upset stomach
How to cope
One of the most important things you can do is to learn more about Alzheimer’s Disease and have realistic expectations of your loved one. Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive brain disorder and the symptoms may be mild at first then become more serious over time.
Become familiar with your loved one’s ability to carry out daily tasks and activities and what they are capable of understanding. They may be forgetful or confused and have a difficult time remembering recent events or someone’s name. Try not to become annoyed if you find you have to repeat yourself.
As the disease progresses, they may forget to perform simple personal care tasks or have a hard time following multiple step directions. For example, asking your loved one to “clean the dinner dishes” may become too complicated or challenging for them to comprehend. The task requires them to take their plate from the kitchen table to the garbage can, clean the plate off, bring it to the sink, rinse and put it in the dishwasher – which may become more steps than they can remember.
Be incredibly observant and attuned to their abilities. When you are able to break down tasks into step by step processes that are achievable you can help reduce the stress and frustrations associated with caregiving.
Be less critical of yourself. Everyone makes mistakes and learning to be a caregiver can be complicated and challenging. You are only human and doing your best to help. Accept your mistakes, learn from them and move on.
Ways to handle the stress
Begin by talking with a professional. Sometimes just opening up to another person who truly understands your situation helps reduce feelings of helplessness, guilt and worry which are caused by the cumulative demands of caregiving.
Join a support group for Alzheimer’s Disease caregivers. You will feel a sense of belonging and relief when you learn you are not alone.
Focus on good things that happen throughout the day with your loved one.
Take care of yourself
Schedule personal healthcare visits and tell your doctor that you are a caregiver.
Eat healthy foods and find time to exercise, whether it is modest physical activity like walking or a cardiovascular workout.
Always have a place in mind where you can go by yourself just to think and relax. Take a moment each day for yourself – whether reading, listening to music or calling a friend.
