Teri Sellers
The PebbleCreek Alzheimer’s Support Group is available to all residents who have a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or any related dementia. A support group provides an opportunity for caregivers to share personal experiences, feelings, coping strategies, and firsthand information on the disease or treatments in a confidential, safe, and non-judgmental place.
The caregivers really need the group and each other. Being isolated for months without the ability to talk it out, share, and feel a little bit normal is stressful. Caring for a loved one with dementia is extremely stressful. Too much stress can be harmful to the caregiver and the loved one.
Here are 10 symptoms of caregiver stress to be aware of that I found on the Alzheimer’s Association website:
1. Denial about the disease and its effect on the person who has been diagnosed. Thinking that the person is going to get better.
2. Anger at the person with dementia or frustration that they can’t do the things they used to be able to do.
3. Social withdrawal from friends and activities that used to make you feel good.
4. Anxiety about the future and facing another day. “What happens when he needs more care than I can provide?”
5. Depression that breaks your spirit and affects your ability to cope.
6. Exhaustion that makes it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks.
7. Sleeplessness caused by a never-ending list of concerns.
8. Irritability that leads to moodiness and triggers negative responses and actions.
9. Lack of concentration that makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks.
10. Health problems that begin to take a mental and physical toll.
The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that if you experience any of these signs of stress on a regular basis, make time to talk to your doctor.
Our group is not holding our regular monthly meeting, but I want you to know that we are still here for you. I have had the privilege of facilitating this group for more than 10 years. Rayma Scalzo started this group for a good reason; we needed it! I am a certified dementia practitioner with 30 years of experience helping families. I am available by phone, and our group has a dedicated egroup which I use to share helpful information.
You are not alone. Please feel free to call me, Teri Sellers, at 602-793-0299. I will share helpful resources and information with you and add you to our email list. Your information is always safe and confidential, and the benefits are priceless.