Alzheimer's / Dementia How You Can Support an Alzheimer’s Caregiver 11/17/2023 | By Alzheimer's Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter With an estimated 6.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s and 11 million Americans providing unpaid care for a loved one with the disease, you are likely to know someone impacted by its challenges. If you do – or if you are one of those caregivers – the Alzheimer’s Association offers ways to support an Alzheimer’s caregiver. “The demands of being an Alzheimer’s caregiver are all-encompassing and increase over time as the disease progresses, said Lisa Roberts, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter. “This month, we are recognizing family caregivers for all they do every day to support people in their lives living with dementia, and invite the public to identify ways to support them as caregivers.” Providing help and support to caregivers can be easier than most people think. Even little acts can make a big difference. The Alzheimer’s Association offers these suggestions: 8 ways to support an Alzheimer’s caregiver 1. Learn Educate yourself about Alzheimer’s disease – its symptoms, its progression and the common challenges facing caregivers. The more you know, the easier it will be to find ways to help. 2. Build a team Organize family and friends who want to help with caregiving. The Alzheimer’s Association offers links to several free, online care calendar resources that families can use to build their care team, share takes and coordinate helpers. 3. Give caregivers a break Make a standing appointment to give the caregiver a break. Spend time with the person living with dementia and allow the caregiver a chance to run errands, go to their own doctor’s appointment, participate in a support group or engage in an activity that helps them recharge. Even one hour could make a big difference in providing the caregiver some relief. 4. Check in Many Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers report feeling isolated or alone. So start the conversation – a phone call to check in, sending a note, or stopping by for a visit can make a big difference in a caregiver’s day and help them feel supported. 5. Tackle the to-do list Ask for a list of errands that need to be run – such as picking up groceries or prescriptions. Offer to do yard work or other household chores. It can be hard for a caregiver to find time to complete these simple tasks that we often take for granted. Related: Five reasons Alzheimer’s caregiving is challenging 6. Be specific and be flexible Open-ended offers of support (“call me if you need anything” or “let me know if I can help”) may be well-intended, but are often dismissed. Be specific in your offer (“I’m going to the store, what do you need?”). Continue to let the caregiver know that you are there and ready to help. 7. Lend a hand for the holidays Holiday celebrations are often joyous occasions, but they can be challenging and stressful for families facing Alzheimer’s. Help caregivers around the holidays by offering to help with cooking, cleaning or gift shopping. If a caregiver has traditionally hosted family celebrations, offer your home instead. 8. Join the fight Honor a person living with the disease and their caregiver by joining the fight against Alzheimer’s. You can volunteer with your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter, participate in fundraising events such as Walk to End Alzheimer’s and The Longest Day, advocate for more research funding, or sign up to participate in a clinical study through the Alzheimer’s Association’s Trial Match. This information has been provided by the Alzheimer’s Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter, highlighting the unique challenges facing Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers and urging caregivers to take care of their own health. As part of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month, the Alzheimer’s Association’s Chapters in North Carolina are offering free education programs and support groups to help all North Carolina caregivers and their families. For a complete list or to register for upcoming programs, visit act.alz.org/ncmonthlyprograms. To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900. Read More Alzheimer's Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter The Alzheimer’s Association - Eastern North Carolina Chapter serves 51 counties, providing education and support to those facing Alzheimer’s and other dementias, including those living with the disease, caregivers, health care professionals, and families. The organization also advocates for the needs and rights of those facing Alzheimer’s disease and advancing critical research toward treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure. Learn more at www.alz.org/nc.