Alzheimer’s Holiday Luncheon

12/20/2005

Who Care for the Caregiver?

Coping Strategies for the Caregiver:

• Look for the blessings in the situation:
• Journal the blessings
• Start with a ½ glass of water. When a blessing occurs, add a little water; when a problem occurs, remove a little water.

• Get involved in a support group

o Find fellow caregivers

o Share experiences

o Increase feelings of self-worth

o Decrease sense of isolation

o Learn from others

o Learn about available resources

• Look at the benefits of the relationships:
• The greater dependence on each other has strengthened the relationship
• Involvement in a support group has expanded the social network
• You have gained an increased capacity to care for your loved one at home
• Opportunity for the fulfillment of a commitment “For better or for worse”

• Look at the benefits of the lifestyle:
• Opportunity to learn new activities such as cooking, laundry, yard care, home maintenance
• Opportunity to develop new social skills such as volunteering and meeting new people

• Look at the benefits of increased knowledge of oneself:

o New appreciation for others

o New attitudes

o New and stronger problem solving and coping skills

o New knowledge and new skills

· Look at the benefits of the spiritual dimension:

o Stronger faith

o Spiritual awakening

o New meaning and purpose in life

· Meditate:

o Start each day with a few quiet moments for meditation, prayer, “centering”

o Reflect on a different principle each day: hope, gentleness, care, love, etc.

· Take time away for one’s self:

o Virtual time away such as closing one’s eyes and “traveling” to a favorite event or a favorite place.

o Real time away through respite services, day care, companion services, etc.

· Plan Ahead:

o Develop contingency plans for those days when what used to work to quiet and calm the loved one doesn’t work any more.

o Develop contingency plans for alternative care should you be unable to provide care for a period of time

· Brainstorm with a friend or family member for solutions and ideas

· Write a daily schedule

o Establish a routine

o Allow for flexibility

o Be prepared to adjust for changing interests

o Take regular breaks

o Be proactive for resolving and preventing problems.

· Keep a sense of humor

o Be open to laughter if and when it fits

o Write down the joyful experiences

o Share the practical experiences

· Look to the future

o The general trend of caregivers is to mourn the losses. That is ok, but also,

o Consider the gifts of caregiving

• Have an “Attitude of Gratitude”:

o Focus on what’s right in your life instead of what’s wrong

o Keep a gratitude journal

o Take a moment to give thanks upon rising in the morning and at meals

o Say “thank you” as often as possible

o Appreciate your kids and spouse just as they are

o Remember why you love your spouse and friends

o Don’t compare your life to others’ lives

o Tell someone you work or live with why you appreciate him or her

o Look for the hidden blessings in a difficult situation

o Live today as if it were your last.