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Alzheimers disease effects more than 6 million Americans.
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. While the current number of people with Alzheimer’ disease is large, it is expected to more than double in the next 30 years. Cognitive impairment can be mild or significant, but either way it can present many challenges to the patient and the caregiver. Many seniors may have mild cognitive impairment, and are not even aware (12-18 percent per the Alzheimers Association).
Over 11 million people in America care for patients with memory issues as unpaid caregivers.
Caregiving for a person with memory and cognitive impairments requires patience, compassion, and clinical skills. I have cared for many patients over the years with cognitive issues, and have watched many families as they struggled with the emotional component of caregiving. A health care team should provide support and education for the caregivers and the family as well as the patient. It is important to recognize the hard work, the struggles, and the accomplishments of our patients and their caregivers as we work with them.
Check alz.org for these statistics, more excellent information, tools, and resources.
Topics to Look for this Month:
- Senior Summer Safety
- Memory testing and tips
- Caregiver self care
- Evidence based exercises for people with Dementia
Caregiving Related Quotes:
–They may forget what you said, but they will not forget how you made them feel.
C Buechner
–The simple act of caring is heroic.
Edward Albert
–To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.
Tia Walker
–I follow three rules: do the right thing, do your best, and always show people you care.
Lou Holtz
–Helping a person will not necessarily change the world, but it will change the world for that person.
Anonymous
Cute Gift Ideas for your Caregiver
(or yourself!)
Check out this beautiful caregiver necklace with inspiring quote: (affiliate link)
Treat yourself to a funny caregiver T shirt! (affiliate link)
>Here is a FREE June calendar you can download and use for patient or family care.
Support your caregiving with health trackers, logs, and handouts here!
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