Emotional
Support
You
may feel you need the support that comes from sharing
thoughts and feelings with others. Some days you may
need a "sympathetic ear," someone who will
listen and not judge. Other days you may need a safe
place to "vent." Friends and family can
help, or you may find it useful to talk to others who
have lived with or worked with caregivers.
Support
groups
A
support group can give you a place to talk with other
caregivers who understand the disease and know just what
you are going through.
It
gives you an opportunity to share your own experiences,
get practical suggestions that can help you in your daily
caregiving while letting you help others. A support group
can also help you manage stress and feel less isolated.
Some
groups are targeted to spouses or adult children. Contact
your local
Alzheimer Society for a list of support groups in
your area.
One-on-one
support
Not
everyone is comfortable participating in a group. Sometimes,
talking one-on-one to someone who has gone through the
experience of caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease
(peer support) can be very helpful.
It
can also be helpful to talk with a trained professional
or counsellor. You may find counsellors or peer support
through your local Alzheimer Society or look for a social
worker through your public health department, health
centre or family service agency. Your family doctor may
also know of counselling resources in your community.
Humour/light-heartedness
Another
way to look after your emotional needs is with humour.
Humour can work wonders by helping you cope with caregiving
demands. Some days it will be possible to laugh, others
it may not be. Look for the humour in day-to-day situations.
See a funny movie. Laugh with friends.
The
Forums (message Board)
The Forums on
this site are another place to share ideas and support
with other caregivers.You might find this online discussion
forum helpful.
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