Pops
My stepdad is diagnosed with mild Alzheimer’s. I have a lot of knowledge from research and had some family with it. My mom is 72 and has basically no knowledge. She’s understanding more as I’m teaching her. Any tips on accepting his diagnosis? I could still use a lot of help. I’m the only child out of 4 and have to take care of both my mom and stepdad. This is a rewarding journey for me.
Hi
what a nice picture of you and your stepdad! I am so glad you have reached out. I am sending over a bunch of articles that I hope can help you and your mom: https://alzheimersdisease.net/living-coping, https://alzheimersdisease.net/living/accepting-a-diagnosis-caregiver, and https://alzheimersdisease.net/living/cope-with-early-onset-diagnosis. I am so glad you are searching for tips for this rewarding journey. Reach out at any time. Jill (Team Member) Hi
, I wanted to piggyback off Jill's response and share two of my favorite articles, both written by caregivers:
https://alzheimersdisease.net/living/tips-for-accepting-new-normal
https://alzheimersdisease.net/living/accepting-a-diagnosis-caregiver
Thank you for sharing the photo of you and your stepdad - there's a lot of mischief and spirit in those smiles! - Warmly, Donna (Team Member)I feel bad that you have to endure this. What you're doing is one of hardest things, it really does take guts.
Allow yourself to struggle occasionally. Take care yourself as well, you can't help them if you are a mess yourself. Seek comfort groups or from other individuals who can relate.
That you are able to give this any meaning is important. You are enough.Thanks for encouragement!!
I also inherited mental disorders and have had struggles over the years. I am taking care of myself but have experienced caregiver burnout and emotional exhaustion but that is a lot better now I thought when I started a year ago gonna do Dr appointments, medications, groceries but there are two different people with so many needs. Physically, mentally, emotionally. I’m caregiver for two. I think I’m gonna start with a psychologist again. Any tips would be great and any information i can give my mom would be greatly appreciated
Thank youI can hear how difficult this has been for you. This must be a lot on you, having to care for yourself, your mom and your step dad. I am glad to hear you are considering seeing a psychologist again and taking that important time for yourself. I am sending over an article that offers tips for self care: https://alzheimersdisease.net/caregivers/self-care. Also, here is an article for your mom with tips for new caregivers: https://alzheimersdisease.net/living/tips-for-new-caregivers. I hope this is helpful. Jill (Team Member)
