Dementia carers
Dementia doesn't simply affect the person who has it. It profoundly changes the lives of those family members and friends who are close to that person.
As a carer it is important to remember that you are an individual with needs and interests of your own. Caregiving can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Acknowledge the need to look after yourself. Request all the help you can from family, friends, neighbours, health professionals and relief services.
Help can be obtained by:
- involving family and friends
- using relief services
- Carer education meetings and programmes. Alzheimers member organisations provide services and education programmes in your area. Look in the contacts section for your nearest member organisation
Some people find it helpful to enrol in a short course for carers or join a local support group. For many involved in caregiving, a support group is a great help. These groups can help maintain your well-being and support you in your role as a carer. There is nothing like meeting with people who know exactly what you are going through. Many Alzheimers member organisations and social service agencies offer carer support groups.
There are many care alternatives when caring for somebody with dementia at home. Daycare, for instance, can be the first step when looking for alternative care. This provides motivation and socialisation for the person with dementia while providing respite for the carer.Attending a daycare centre may give you the confidence that others can help you provide the necessary care. It may also prepare the person for their transition to residential care should the need arise in the future.
Respite care is important for the carer to get regular breaks from caring. Many hospitals and care facilities offer Respite Care. Your local Alzheimers member organisation will have information on daycare and respite care facilities in your area.
Further information:
More information can be found in The Dementia Booklet or in the following Information Sheets:
Books that may be of interest are:
The New Zealand Dementia Guide by Dr Chris Perkins, Random House, New Zealand 2004. ISBN 1-86941-605-8
A Carer's Guide Helping you care for someone with Alzheimer's or other dementias by Rosette Teitel and Sharon Wall. Australia 2003. ISBN 1-876451-27-0
Understanding Difficult Behaviors by Anne Robinson, Beth Spencer and Laurie White. Alzheimers Education Program, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Michigan. USA 2007. IBSN 0-9789020-0-9 (This book is available from Alzheimers New Zealand for $45. To order, please email nationaloffice@alzheimers.org.nz or call 04 381 2362).
These books are available to be loaned from the Alzheimers New Zealand National Office library.