Caregiving

Being a caregiver means that you provide care and support someone who needs help.^1,2 That person may be a parent, grandparent, neighbor, or friend. Caregiving responsibilities may range from paying bills, to handling doctors’ visits or helping with daily activities like bathing. Being a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias can come with rewarding yet challenging experiences. Below are some tips to help you in your caregiver role.

Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s or Related Dementias

As Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia progress, your caregiving responsibilities will likely grow. It is important to find strategies that can help you manage daily tasks efficiently and best support the person you are caring for. Here are 5 tips you can include in your daily caregiving routine ^2,3:

1. Establish a routine – Set consistent times for bathing, dressing, and meals each day.
2. Choose comfortable clothing – Buy loose-fitting clothing with elastic waistbands or slip-on shoes.
3. Promote engaging activities – Encourage enjoyable activities like watching favorite movies or taking walks.
4. Communicate respectfully – Provide clear step-by-step instructions when assisting with activities like bathing or getting dressed.
5. Offer choices – Give the person you care for the opportunity to make decisions, like choosing which color shirt to wear.

Caring for Yourself

As you care for someone else, it can be hard to prioritize your own emotional, mental, and physical health. However, taking care of yourself is important not only for your own health but also for providing better care.⁵ Asking for help, getting regular check-ups, and making time for hobbies you enjoy are some ways you can protect your health.⁴ Here are some tips to take care of yourself^4,5:

1. Ask for help – Make a list of what needs to be done and share it with others who can provide support.
2. Get routine care – Visit your doctor regularly to monitor and improve health.
3. Take breaks – Find time to take a break and get respite care. Explore services such as in-home support or adult care centers, which can provide temporary rest for a few hours or longer.
4. Join a caregiver’s support group – Hear and share stories with others going through similar experiences.
5. Stay active – Include short walks or stretching exercises in your daily routine.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Caring for Yourself When Caring for Another. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/caring-for-yourself.html
2. Alzheimer’s.org. (2024). Tips for Caregivers and Families of People With Dementia. https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/tips-caregivers
3. Mayo Clinic. (2024). Alzheimer's and dementia care: Tips for daily tasks. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers-caregiver/art-20047577
4. National Institute on Aging. (2017). Alzheimer's Caregiving: Caring for Yourself. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving-caring-yourself
5. University of California San Francisco Memory and Aging Center. (2024). Caregiver Well-Being. https://memory.ucsf.edu/caregiving-support/caregiver-well-being