“Alzheimer’s caregivers ride the world’ biggest, fastest, scariest emotional roller coaster ride everyday” (Bob DeMarco). Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that is a common form of dementia. According to the Alzheimer's Association, 50 million people suffer from the disease. It is identified as a disease that steals precious memories and moments from loved ones.
Imagine living in a home where your grandparent forgets who you are or permanently returns to a state of infancy. Being in a family where Alzheimer’s disease has made its mark, I can contend that it does not discriminate based on class or gender.
Alzheimer’s is a disease that is close to my heart since my mother has been my grandmother’s only caretaker which can at many times be stressful and time-consuming. I have witnessed all aspects of the disease and can contend that Alzheimer’s is both scary and depressing for both the patient and the caregiver. I have seen Alzheimer’s patients become aggressive and others mischievous which can frustrate caretakers. Below are three coping strategies for caregivers who are currently caring for an Alzheimer’s patient.
Be Patient
Dealing with an Alzheimer's patient is like dealing with a child. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease where memory and judgment become impaired, and patients are uncertain about many
aspects of their lives. Alzheimer's patients forget relatives and usually forget how to do daily activities. My experience with my grandmother has taught my family how to be patient since she
would often ask us what day it is or what is the time.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease