Ten Ways to Help a Family Living with Alzheimer's

Linda Slota, Director, Webster MA Senior Center

What is Alzheimer's?

Alzheimer's (ALHZ-high-merz) is a disease of the brain that causes problems with memory, thinking and behaviour. One in three adults knows someone living with Alzheimer's disease.

What Families are Feeling 

You may want to offer assistance to a family living with Alzheimer's but worry you will say or do the wrong thing. It may help to be aware of these common experiences:

The Person With Alzheimer's Likely -

Is adjusting to new schedules and changing roles: welcomes your direct contact; worries about overwhelming family caregivers and strives to keep an active independent lifestyle.

Family Members Often -

Feel alone and disconnected from friends; need assistance or a break but hesitate to ask; struggle to run errands or complete daily tasks and feel high stress and welcome a good listener.

1. Stay in Touch - Show you care - a card, a call or a visit all mean a lot.

2. Treat the person with respect and dignity - focus on all that the person can do

3. Do the little things - drop off dinner or run an errand.

4. Be specific when offering help - tackle a task on the family's "To Do" list

5. Educate yourself about Alzheimer's - learn about its effects and how to respond

6. Get the whole family out of the house - plan an activity like a picnic or dinner at your place and include the person whenever possible.

7. Be a good listener - support and accept - try not to judge.

8. Encourage the family to stay healthy - offer ideas for support and respite services

9. Allow the family some personal time - fill in as a caregiver when needed

10. Keep all family members in mind - from tots to elders, each reacts uniquely. 

For reliable information and support, contact the Alzheimer's Association at 1-800-272-3900 and visit their website at www.alz.org.