Coping with an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

There is no easy way to say it. When your doctor tells you that you have Alzheimer’s disease, you may feel overwhelmed. After all, this marks a profound change in your life. You may feel fear, denial, anger, despair, sadness, and grief.^1-3

Take your time adjusting to and accepting this news. It is true that your life, over time, is going to change. But it is also true that you can go forward with the help and support of others. Facing and coping with Alzheimer’s disease is a team effort.^1-3

Managing this new reality means learning new ways of living.^1-4

Facing your feelings

To begin with, the future may seem scary and depressing. Whatever you feel, do not be afraid to face it and express it. Handling your emotions healthily might include:^1-3

• Writing them down to get them off your mind
• Sharing them with those close to you, a counselor, or a clergy member
• Joining an Alzheimer’s support group – online or in person – where others share your emotions
• Fighting your negative emotions with facts

Maintaining relationships

As you adapt to this new life, reach for the support of others. Stay involved with those you care for to maintain a sense of purpose and belonging.^1,2,5,6

• Remember, you are still you – a spouse, parent, grandparent, sibling, friend. Your place in others’ lives does not change just because of the Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
• Fight the urge to withdraw or give in to depression and anxiety. Seek treatment from your doctor if these linger.
• Share your diagnosis with others and help them understand your needs.

Learning and persevering

You may wonder what your days will be like. Try creating and sticking to an active, safe routine. This will make it easy to stay on track.^2-12

• Stay involved with activities you find fulfilling.
• Consider learning something new.
• Play or listen to music that brings happy memories, cheer, and comfort. Music is a powerful force for good feelings and brain function.
• Paint, draw, or sculpt clay to express yourself and create beauty. Art therapy can engage and soothe the mind.

Eating, sleeping, and exercising

As you adapt, living a healthy life will help give you a sense of well-being. The following simple steps may contribute to your brain and body health.^3,7,8,13

• Eat a balanced, heart-healthy diet such as the MIND diet or the Mediterranean diet.
• Go to bed at the same time each night. Rest during the day when you are tired.
• See your doctor for regular check-ups.

And don’t forget to stay active. Walking, swimming, cycling, tennis, or a group exercise class – all can benefit your mind. Studies have shown that 20 to 30 minutes of brisk exercise several times a week can:^9,10

• Fight a loss of thinking skills
• Lessen depression
• Lessen stress
• Increase blood and oxygen flow to the brain
• Help with overall heart and brain health

Finding strength and peace

Remember, no matter what happens to you on the outside, you are still yourself on the inside. Facing Alzheimer’s disease, you may need to seek out sources of inner strength and peace. Consider:³

• Prayer
• Meditation
• Attending church, synagogue, or temple
• Enjoying nature
• Your own personal path

Take time to identify your beliefs and consider how they can strengthen you.³

Planning for the future

Now that you know your future will involve many changes, you can plan for them. Learn about your diagnosis and seek out resources for care and support. Although it may seem difficult, early planning will help you adapt. For example, you can:^3-5

• Share your preferences now, while they are clear to you.
• List current and future tasks you will need help with, such as driving, paying bills, shopping, and cooking.
• Talk to your support team about living arrangements. This may involve moving in with family or to a memory care community.
• Take part in healthcare and financial planning.

Your caregiving team

One last note, just for caregivers. If you care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, you play a vital role. Your presence, physical help, and understanding are key to their well-being. Together with their support team, you can help the person find their way on this new path.^3,4

• Remind them that they are not in this alone – be available.
• Help them sort through their emotions.
• Make sure that you both learn all you can about Alzheimer’s disease.
• Focus on what they can do, not their limitations.
• Guide them to healthy lifestyle choices.

And remember to take care of yourself. Your health and well-being are vital to theirs. Take advantage of caregiving support groups.⁶

Key takeaways

Accepting the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease takes time and requires help. But there are many ways to face this new reality healthily.^1-12

• Be patient with yourself as you adjust to this unexpected chapter of life.
• Build your support system and stay involved with people and activities you enjoy.
• Learn facts about Alzheimer’s to help you cope with each stage.