Named after the doctor who first described it, Alois Alzheimer, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. During the course of the disease, connections between nerve cells in the brain are lost, as proteins build to form structures known as ‘plaques’ and ‘tangles’. Over time, this can eventually lead to the death of nerve cells and loss of brain tissue. Gradually, as the disease progresses, more parts of the brain are damaged, and as this happens so further symptoms develop along with their severity.
As early damage often occurs in the part of the brain known as the hippocampus (an essential player in our day-to-day memory), an initial symptom is often the difficulty to recall recent events, while the memory of long time events can remain unaffected. As the years tally on, familiar settings may seem confusing. Depression can often set in. Visuospatial skills may be compromised, making it difficult to climb a flight of stairs or park a car.
But as hard as Alzheimer’s can be on the on those diagnosed, it can be just as hard on loved ones who now assume the role of caregiver. So if you find yourself in that role, remember that Alzheimer’s is not a death sentence. Hope is just around the corner and we’re sure that with these helpful coping strategies, you’ll find that this is far from the end for your journey together.
- Hold onto those happy memories. This can be hard when they behave out of character or experience changes in mood. So it is important to remember that it is not your loved one who has changed, but simply that the disease has progressed.
- Learn new love languages. While regular means of communication may become a challenge over time, through music, reading, dance and art you can explore new ways to communicate your love for your partner. Even a simple touch can be the reassurance of your love for them.
- Research the disease. Learn all you can. The more you know about the disease, the easier it will become to fully empathise with your loved one.
- Allow for some independence. Even if your loved one needs assistance with certain tasks, it is important to grant them their own independence where possible.
- Routine is integral. As the disease progresses, it becomes all the more important to develop set routines and schedules. It will help to ease any confusion and frustration your loved one may experience, and in turn make life a whole lot easier for the two of you together.
- Healthy eating is key. Studies have linked Alzheimer’s to lifestyle choices such as poor nutrition. Limiting refined sugars and a diet rich in vegetables can often help to manage behavioural issues.
- Learn to expect the unexpected. Setting unrealistic goals is just another way to set yourself up for failure and disappointment. So be gentle on yourself and your loved one when things do not always go according to plan.
- Remember that you too need support. It is important to rely on friends and family when you need someone in your corner. While you may feel lonely at times, the truth is you don’t have to be. You are equally deserving of love and support.
- Remain accountable. As much as your loved one may forget your specific words or actions, the emotions can stay with them long after the fact. So avoid unnecessary arguments you will only come to regret later.
- Take care of yourself. Burnout is inevitable if you do not grant yourself permission to recharge. Make time for the things you love. Allow for the occasional moment to simply breathe. You still have a whole life ahead of you.
Date Published: 26 October 2016
