Alzheimer's - Caregiver's Asking For Help – Part 1: Why I Need To Ask For Help

By Author: Nava Care Now
Total Articles: 5
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Your father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's nearly five years ago now. It started out with simple things: forgetting household items like the keys, a checkbook and maybe even a misplaced watch. And then, as the disease progressed, so did the seriousness of the memory loss. Now Dad forgets food on the stove, he forgets how to shave and he even forgets your name occasionally.
As time goes on, your Dad can't be left alone anymore. He can't drive because he doesn't remember how and even if he could drive, he doesn't remember where to go. You, as the caregiver, have noticed a direct correlation between Dad's increased reliance on you and your increased stress levels. Now, the caregiver needs to be given some help!
Stress, Depression and Alzheimer's

In a survey conducted by the Alzheimer's Association, over 80 percent of caregivers have reported experiencing high levels of stress. And almost half of all caregivers say they have depression.
With statistics like this, it's becoming increasingly important for caregiver's to ask for help. For obvious and maybe not so obvious reasons, ...
... a caregiver must become aware of how they are internalizing the effects of their parent's disease and understanding the affect it will have on their own personal well-being.
Imagine this scenario: you are caregiver with borderline high blood pressure. At times, you get into a heated argument with your parent. You know that this is not the right approach to have with someone who suffers from Alzheimer's. But you can't help yourself and out of frustration you lash out. On one occasion, the argument escalates and so does your blood pressure and you have a mild heart attack. Now, you, the caregiver, needs immediate attention. Who calls the ambulance? Who cares for your parent while you recover in the hospital? Who cares for you?
Why You Need Help

You can see the host of challenges this scenario presents. Unfortunately, this “scenario” is reality for many caregiver's who deal with their own health issues as they care for their loved ones. And even if you don't have health issues, you will want to make sure you get the help you need as a caregiver before health issues ever become a reality. Think of it as preventative medicine for the caregiver.
So how do you get help? Here are some ideas for getting the help you need for yourself:
Ask for help.

Too many well-intentioned caregivers have the “martyr syndrome” - thinking that they can handle everything without any assistance. Sometimes the biggest obstacle to overcome is your own pride. Ask for help! Whether it be a sibling, a friend, a church group or other connections you may have.
Make time for you.

You may be saying to yourself. “Well that sounds great but I can't leave my parent alone.” You're right. This one might be challenging. You may have to think outside the box for ways to get help with your parent so you can take a break. How about asking a friend or relative to be with your parent on regular basis each day or every couple of days even for a couple hours so you can have a break? It's amazing what a little time to yourself can do for your attitude and perspective. “There is no one I can ask,” you say. Is it financially feasible to hire a trained nurse to come into your home? Or, consider Day care for your parent. There are many reputable organizations that provide this much needed service.
Get connected with an Alzheimer's support group.

A caregiver's best friend can be found in the unity of similar situations. A support group is a great way to unload all the frustrations and challenges you manage as a caregiver and to feel like you are not alone in this journey. An added bonus is what you can learn from others who have experienced some of the same struggles.
Remember prevention is the best medicine. Be proactive and realistic about your needs as you care for your parent. Getting the help you need is as important as giving your loved one the help they need.