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Extending the Partnership
Everyone's situation is a little different. But, for many people, an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis can be stressful, frightening, and overwhelming. "How will we ever get through this?" "How will we possibly manage?" But the next day comes, and you get through it. Some more time passes, and one day you realize, "Hey, we're doing this. Not only that, we're doing it pretty well." You're proud of yourselves, and you should be.
Perhaps your loved one's symptoms worsen. Or there is an incident that makes you worry about safety. As the caregiver, your situation may change. And then you — maybe one of you, maybe both of you — start to admit to the one thought that you have tried so hard to push away: We need help.
You Don't Have to Do It Alone
Fortunately, the sources of help available for people with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers have expanded far beyond what was available in the past. There is support in the community, there is help that can be brought into the home, and there are residential resources. If the time comes, you are very likely to find an option that suits your needs. Even if you are doing just fine on your own right now, this is the time to start looking into the possibilities for help and talking about your preferences.
Care and Support Options — Steps You Can Take
It is a good idea to learn about sources of help and support now, so that the information will be there when and if you need it. As a person with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, you can now begin to learn more about available options and make your wishes and preferences clear. As a caregiver, you can begin to gather information about the various sources of care and start to think about which options you think will be practical.
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