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[From
the Shared Experiences: Suggestions for those with
Alzheimer Disease booklet and audiotape by the Alzheimer
Society of Canada. To get a copy, contact your local
Alzheimer Society.]
Experiencing
a Variety of Emotions
For
some people, the Alzheimer diagnosis is a shock. For
others, there may be an initial sense of relief at finally
being able to put a name to their symptoms. Whatever
your immediate response to the diagnosis, over time,
you will find yourself experiencing a variety of emotions.
Some
common reactions and feelings
We
asked individuals about their reactions and feelings
about living with Alzheimer's disease. Here are some of
their comments:
Denial: "Sometimes
I think they made a mistake, I don't have Alzheimer's disease.
I'm still functioning."
Anger: "It
angers me that I can't pull myself up."
Anxiety: "I'm
scared about losing my abilities."
Guilt: "I
feel guilty, like a dead weight around my husband's neck."
Frustration: "I
start talking to people, then I forget what I'm talking
about; it blocks me."
Hurt: "If
I make a mistake, don't correct me. That hurts."
Humour: "I
have to laugh. That's therapy. If I didn't laugh, I would
cry."
Sadness: "I
feel the end of something."
Depression: "It's
all black."
Loneliness: "You
are not in the circle but on the outside."
Acceptance: "I
take it as it comes at this stage of the game."
Hope: "You
have to fight. Hang on. One of these days they will find
a cure."
It
can be especially helpful to meet with other people who
have the disease. Together, you can share your feelings
and experiences and offer each other social and emotional
support.
Contact
your local Alzheimer Society to
see if there is an early-stage Alzheimer's disease support
group in your area. Another option may be to have the
Society put you in touch with someone who can provide
one-on-one support.
Some
suggestions for coping with your emotions
When
we asked individuals how they coped with their emotions,
here is what they said:
- "Acknowledge
it."
- "Take
one day at a time."
- "Join
a support group. The more you speak, you get a load
off your chest."
- "Be
with people you can laugh with."
- "Go
for a walk with someone."
- "Don't
be shy. Ask for help."
- "Tell
people if they hurt your feelings."
- "Animals
are good for people. Animals are calming."
- "Don't
stay enclosed, isolated. Get out."
- "Never
give up hope. Living is worth it."
Dealing
with depression
Considering
the many changes associated with Alzheimer's disease, it
is understandable that you may feel sad or unhappy.
- Don't
carry the burden alone. Talk to people who can help
you deal with your feelings.
- Try
some activities that can help take your mind off your
worries, for example, playing your favourite music,
gardening, taking a walk, caring for pets. These activities
can have a beneficial effect.
If
the feelings of sadness and hopelessness become overwhelming,
make an appointment to see your doctor. Professional
counselling may be recommended or medication may be considered.
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