Care & Support

Issues to Think About - Steps You Can Take

People at this stage of Alzheimer's disease may not actually need additional help, but they may want to take advantage of various sources of support. Similarly, caregivers can benefit from social and emotional support at this stage.

Issues the Person with Mild Alzheimer's Disease Can Consider:

• The need for meaningful activity and a structured, predictable routine
• The desire to socialize with peers and friends
• The benefits of regular exercise and/or mental stimulation
• The connection of sharing feelings, fears, and hopes with other people with Alzheimer's disease

Issues the Caregiver Can Consider:

• The needs of other family members
• The time to pursue favorite activities
• The enjoyment of socializing with friends
• The desire to share ideas and concerns with others who are caregivers
• The demands of work outside the home

Steps the Person with Mild Alzheimer's Disease and the Caregiver Can Take:

• Talk honestly with each other and family members about your needs and desire for support. Talk truthfully, too, about your need to take time for yourselves on a regular basis
• Look into support services that are available in the community, such as support groups and counseling services
• Ask an expert organization, such as your local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, about less well-known community support options, such as Meals-on-Wheels, visiting nurses, and adult day programs for people with early-stage Alzheimer's disease

Issues to Think About - Steps You Can Take

Depending on the symptoms at this stage, either the person with moderate Alzheimer's disease or the caregiver, or both, may need additional support and assistance. Bringing help into the home is one option to consider. For now or for the future, you may also want to begin to gather information on assisted living alternatives.

Issues the Person with Moderate Alzheimer's Disease Can Consider:

• The need for more assistance to structure his or her day and do enjoyable activities
• The necessity of assistance with personal care, such as bathing or dressing
• The uneasiness of having personal care provided by a close relative

Issues the Caregiver Can Consider:

• The inability to provide all personal care on his or her own
• The need for more time off to enjoy hobbies and recharge
• The safety issues if the person with moderate Alzheimer's disease is confused

Steps the Person with Moderate Alzheimer's Disease and the Caregiver Can Take:

• Recognize the benefits, for both of you, of getting the help and support you need
• Get assistance with your search for help. Try calling an expert organization such as the Alzheimer's Association or Eldercare Locator. One call can narrow your search considerably