Go to the Alzheimer’s Association. They have chapters all over the country. Look in your phone book, or go to alz.org to find the chapter nearest you. While you are on the computer, follow the links. See what can help you now, and what you can look into as issues develop. Make a list for future reference. You can’t do everything today – you are still absorbing the shock.
Make the recommended call to your local agency (they have a “finder” to help you). Their national toll-free number for help day or night is 1- 800-272-3900. The agency’s site will help you learn how to prepare for doctor visits and be a true partner with your doctor for the best possible treatment.
Look to these organizations and others for caregiving support. Caregiving can affect the health of the caregiver tremendously. Depression and other mental health issues, sleep loss, skipped physicals and auto-immune disease are just a few of the consequences of caregiver neglect. While researching for Alzheimer’s care options, also watch for caregiver health tips. Both of the above sites offer extensive support. Use it.
Respite care for the caregiver figures heavily into this. You need to check with your local Alzheimer’s chapters and Social Service agencies for suggestions about local relief for caregivers. You will need it and your mom would want you to have it – no matter what she says in her demented times.
3. Find out about all of the treatment options available.
First and foremost, establish a strong bond with the physician(s) caring for your mom. Communication is vital. A person with Alzheimer’s disease is not going to be able to accurately tell the physician what is happening to them. This is where the caregiver must be proactive. Let the physician(s) know that you want to partner with them in your mom’s care.
4. Ask about available medications.
Some drugs focus on slowing the progression of the disease.
One class prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine which is a chemical messenger in the brain that is important to memory and thinking. The other class appears to work by regulating the activity of glutamate, one of the brain’s specialized messenger chemicals involved in information processing, storage and retrieval. Glutamate plays an essential role in learning and memory. These drugs help some people more than others, which is why it is essential to keep an open dialog with the physician.
