How to Care for Your Spouse Suffering from Alzheimer’s?

The common wedding vows of “holding each other in sickness and in health” are really put to the test if one of the spouses is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Caring for such a spouse can range from minor hiccups along the way to a profound change in marriage and relationships. Here is what professional caregivers have to say.

Impact of Alzheimer’s on Marriage

When Alzheimer’s disease (AD) takes hold, the roles start to change. Marriage gradually transforms from a civil partnership and life-long friendship to more a parent-child relationship. One of the spouses becomes a caregiver for the other.

Read Alzheimer's Causes: https://homecareassistancecsprings.com/what-causes-alzheimers-in-seniors/

In some relationships, a person with dementia starts to accept the guidance of his/her spouse and becomes willingly dependent on them for survival. In other relationships, resentment and anger build in as the Alzheimer’s-diagnosed individual get frustrated by constantly being told what to do by his/her spouse.

The level of comfort and intimacy may start to change. As dementia builds up, the individual may have trouble identifying and relating to their spouse. This makes them distant and unsure of each other and can be painful for both parties.

One of the greatest challenges of caring for your spouse is dealing with the sudden and abrupt mood swings that accompany AD. Personality changes are common in all those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Your loved one may suddenly become aggressive and try to get physical with you. He/she may accuse you of cheating on them, without any reason or evidence.

Caring for a Spouse with Alzheimer’s in Colorado Springs

Caregiving for a spouse with Alzheimer’s is a true test of patience and perseverance. Even if you choose to hire professional help, you will still have to play a vital part in looking after your spouse. Here are a few tips on how to care for your spouse.

Understand the Symptoms

If you feel that your spouse is being unreasonable, unnecessarily difficult, or accusing you of something you didn’t even do, remind yourself that it is the disease that’s making them this way. Tell yourself that the hurtful remarks are not coming from your spouse’s heart and, obviously, they don’t mean it. It’s dementia that’s making them this way.

Music

Research has shown that music has a calming effect on all AD sufferers and can help them remember. Try to put on your spouse’s favorite songs in your home. Play your wedding song. This will help them in remembering and recalling their old memories and, in turn, they may remember and recall you.

Humor

No matter how tough caregiving gets, do not lose hope, and do not lose your sense of humor. A few jokes can help you both relax and have a good time.

Don’t Be Alone

You may be a smart, patient, and amazing spouse, but you should consider professional help for your spouse. Live-in caregivers are experts in providing support and assistance, allowing you to take a break from your duties and catch up on some quality time when your responsibilities start to weigh you down.

Read More About Alzheimer's and how Alzheimer's Affect Memory.