Alzheimer caregivers should learn to be assertive in asking friends and relatives for what they need. Often others would like to help but don’t, know how. Make a wish list of errands or weekly jobs that need to be done, such as grocery shopping, laundry, dusting, vacuuming, yard work, paying bills, and the like. Other list items might include time spent with the Alzheimer person, such as taking him for a walk or inviting him to help in the garden raking leaves or digging in the dirt. You might ask for supervision of the individual while you attend an Alzheimer support group or go to the movies. Have your list handy and when someone asks how they can help, show them the list and let them help. Many people are too proud to either ask for or accept help. This attitude will make it very difficult for you to sustain the day in and day out care that the Alzheimer
individual will require and will deny others the satisfaction of knowing that they have contributed in a significant and meaningful way to the care of the patient and to caring for you as well.Friends should remember that caregivers may be very busy and tired and may neglect initiating contact with their friends. This does not mean that they do not care about their friendships. Continue to make those phone calls, make those visits, and give those invitations, even if they are not reciprocated. They mean a lot and there will be a time in the future that will allow for greater reciprocity. There is a very large risk for social isolation of the caregiver. If caregivers and their support systems do not actively fight such isolation, the result will be stress, depression, and ill health.
Support Groups
One of the most helpful and important sources of information and emotional support for the caregiver is a local Alzheimer Association support group. Although it may be difficult to attend that first meeting, every person have ever talked to has told me how important the Alzheimer support group has been in providing information, friendship, and support from others who are going through similar feelings and problems. Strongly suggest that you seek out such an organization as early as possible.