Find a support group.  Here others who are experiencing similar feelings and frustrations can provide mutual support and relief as feelings are shared.

 

Learn about the disease, how a person with the disease feels and behaves, what research is accomplishing, what support services are available, how others are dealing with the daily responsibility of providing care.

 

Recognize those challenges that are beyond any one's control.

 

Be realistic about your expectations.  Everyone has limits, the sooner we accept these limits, the more effective care giving will be.

 

Be realistic about the expectations for the person with Alzheimer's or a related dementia.  Remember the person has a disease.  The disease is causing the behavior.

 

Be tolerant of yourself.  Forgive yourself for losing patience, for angry outbursts, for feeling so inadequate.  The disease is an ongoing neurological disorder.

 

Keep in touch with friends, family and neighbors.  Welcome support.

 

Seek professional help with feelings of isolation, grief, despair, guilt and fatigue.