Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis for a spouse can be overwhelming, but numerous networks exist to ensure that both of you receive the support you need. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive form of dementia—a term that encompasses various conditions affecting thinking, memory, behavior, personality, and more. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, impacting over 6 million people in the United States alone, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
An Alzheimer’s diagnosis can signify the beginning of a new chapter for both the individual diagnosed and their loved ones. For spouses of those living with Alzheimer’s, their role often evolves into that of a caregiver, bringing its own unique set of challenges.
This article provides tips for caring for your spouse following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, including advice on self-care and guidance on when it might be appropriate to seek professional support.
Tips for Collaborating with the Medical Team
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it can become increasingly difficult for individuals to manage certain tasks independently. Building a supportive medical team early on can be enormously beneficial. Here are some of the key medical professionals who often form a care team for someone with Alzheimer’s:
- Primary Care Physician: Manages general medical needs, including checkups, blood work, and specialist referrals.
- Dietitian or Nutritionist: Ensures the person with Alzheimer’s meets their nutritional needs at every stage of the disease.
- Physical Therapist or Speech and Language Therapist: Addresses changes in movement and communication caused by the disease.
- Occupational Therapist: Teaches skills to make daily life easier for someone with Alzheimer’s.
- Psychiatrist or Psychologist: Assists with navigating emotional changes and the overall impact of Alzheimer’s.
- Social Worker: Provides information on assistance and access to community-based resources.
Whether your spouse has only one or several of these professionals on their care team, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of this support.
As a spouse, maintaining an open line of communication with the medical team is particularly valuable. One effective way to do this is by scheduling or participating in phone calls or meetings with care team members.
These meetings and appointments are an excellent opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have, as well as any care goals you and your spouse have set. Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask any questions related to your loved one’s medical care.
Tips for At-Home Alzheimer’s Care
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses and symptoms become more severe, your loved one may require increased assistance with daily living tasks. For many, much of this care takes place at home.
Here are two useful tips to help you as you care for your loved one:
Accommodate Alzheimer’s and Dementia Needs
Dementia can affect your spouse’s physical movements, cognition, and memory. Adapting your home and lifestyle to accommodate these needs can make daily activities less stressful for both of you.
Those with dementia may benefit from:
- Labels and Reminders: Mark important items like medications and household hazards such as cleaners with clear labels.
- Physical Accessibility Aids: Install ramps or easy-to-open door handles to enhance mobility.
- Balanced Diet: Provide meals rich in vegetables and other anti-inflammatory foods.
- Adaptive Clothing and Personal Care Items: Choose items designed for individuals with low mobility.
- Safe Living Environment: A neighborhood with low traffic and high walkability can be beneficial.
- Regular Social Schedule: Ensure time for social interactions with friends and family.
Ask for Support
Alzheimer’s disease impacts everyone involved, making support a crucial component of care. When caring for a spouse with Alzheimer’s at home, support can come in various forms: financial, social, medical, and more.
Support can be as simple as asking a friend or family member for help with daily tasks like shopping and cooking. Alternatively, it may involve contacting your spouse’s caseworker to enroll in financial assistance programs.
Regardless of your specific needs, one of the best ways to care for both yourself and your spouse is to reach out for support when needed.
Hiring Professional Help
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses to moderate or severe stages, everyday tasks such as dressing, using the bathroom, or eating may become increasingly difficult for your loved one. At this point, caregiving often becomes a continual responsibility.
As a caregiver to a spouse with Alzheimer’s, balancing their needs with your own can be challenging. This is where professional support can be invaluable. Some common options for caregiving support include home care aides, home healthcare aides, and respite services.
Whether you need assistance for just a few hours or an extended period, leveraging available professional help can be immensely beneficial.
Tips for Your Mental Health
Spouses and partners of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease often experience heightened stress, anxiety, and depression. A 2020 study even found that people with spouses suffering from Alzheimer’s and related dementias exhibited a 30% increase in depressive symptoms compared to those whose spouses were free of these conditions.
Here are a few tips to help take care of your mental health while caring for a spouse with Alzheimer’s:
- Take Care of Yourself: It’s difficult to support your emotional health if you neglect your physical health. Prioritize getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active to care for both your body and mind.
- Practice Stress Reduction: Full-time caregiving can be highly stressful, so it’s crucial to set aside time for activities that help reduce stress. Not only will this improve your health and well-being, but it will also enable you to provide better care for your loved one.
- Enjoy Your Hobbies: Caregiving responsibilities can result in your own hobbies and interests being neglected. Reconnect with activities you enjoy—either alone or with friends—as a way to nurture yourself during this time.
- Connect with Your Support System: No one should face the challenges of Alzheimer’s alone. Lean on friends, support groups, or mental health professionals to help you navigate this journey. Your support network can offer emotional and practical assistance.
- Take Vacations: Everyone deserves some personal time to relax and recharge. Whether it’s a trip with friends or a solo getaway at a bed-and-breakfast, taking time for yourself can be rejuvenating.