How to Live With a Spouse who has Alzheimer's

Every 72 seconds someone in America develops Alzheimer's and by the middle of the century, that number will increase to every 33 seconds. Unfortunately, this means a lot of people have experience living with a spouse who has Alzheimer's. One of the most important things learned by these people is not only is it important to care for the patient, it's equally important to care for the spouse. Read on to learn how to live with a spouse who has Alzheimer's.

Instructions

• 1

  Learn all you can about Alzheimer's and available treatments. Between your medical professionals and the Internet, you should be able to keep up to date on the latest drug trials and other facets of care.

• 2

  Become established with a physician you trust, preferably someone who specializes in geriatrics and is experienced in the treatment of disease in older people.

• 3

  Find a support group for spouses of Alzheimer's patients and attend it on a regular basis. No one understands what you're going through like someone else going through the same thing. These people will become your lifeline.

• 4

  Attend to your emotional needs with "respite care," time when you transfer care taking duties to a qualified assistant and get out of the house for a few hours. Lunch with a friend, drop by a yard sale, take a walk--even simple activities can help you refresh and recharge so you can give your spouse the most attentive, loving care possible.

• 5

  Take care of your physical needs by eating properly and getting enough sleep. Since Alzheimer's patients can become more active in the evenings, you may need to consider hiring a night aide to watch your spouse while you get regular shut eye. This is an important time to watch the use of pain killers or other prescription medication that can make you drowsy or depressed.

• 6

  Try to approach each day as totally new. Technology has made some interesting strides with this disease and a cure, or at least a remarkable treatment, for Alzheimer's may be just around the corner.