My family and I have to care for a family member with dementia. How can we keep ourselves healthy?

Some of the most common feelings families and caregivers experience are guilt, grief and loss, and anger. Rest assured that you are not alone if you find yourself feeling these, too. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Sit down with the members of your family and ask what they are willing to do to help. Give them ideas and suggestions. Don'€™t assume that they know what you need. Also, recognize that you are dealing with a stressful situation. It won't be easy, but be sure to give yourself props for all you do and for being brave enough to take in this responsibility. Caregiving isn'€™t easy, and it€'s important to make sure your aging family member does not take up all your energy. Make sure you find ways to pull together as a family and work together for everyone'€™s benefit.

Primary care giver burnout is very common, especially among family members. To keep a healthy mind you need to take breaks. Share the load with the whole family instead of being the sole care giver. Take breaks when you get the chance and relax. Remember, being burnt out isn't only bad for your mental health, but will also reduce the quality of care for the family member with dementia.

Many times, attitudes form personal barriers that stand in the way of caring for yourself. Not taking care of yourself may be a lifelong pattern because taking care of others is an easier option. However, as a family caregiver you must ask yourself, "What good will I be to the person I care for if I become ill? If I die?" So care about yourself and your well-being first before looking after a sick person.

Remember to take some time out to have for yourselves, do things that you enjoy be it just reading a book.

It is important that you all share responsibility, and that each family member takes some time to be removed from the situation. It is difficult to help any ailling family member, but you can't help them if you don't take care of yourself. Make sure everyone gets time away from stress and continues to participate in activities they enjoy. Rely on each other, and never be afraid to ask for help.

Dealing with a family member who has dementia must be difficult! Please do your best to take care of yourself and show yourself love and compassion while still providing care to your family member. There are forums and various resources online that can help you connect with other people dealing with the same thing. Good luck friend!

By not doing some of the things that person have done. chronic or persistent disorder of the mental processes caused by brain disease or injury and marked by memory disorders, personality changes, and impaired reasoning.

Try and learn as much about the disease as you can because that is exactly what it is is a disease and take time out for you. Because not taking time for your self can affect you especially when it comes to dealing with a loved one with dementia

Join a dementia support group so you can share your struggles with others who understand. Consult with professionals about how to manage challenging behaviors. Be kind to each other.

To keep yourself healthy while taking care of a family member with dementia, you are going to need to accept to get some help and eventually make some free time for yourself here and there. This time will be considered recuperation time. Try not to do anything else that is heavy or "urgent" during this time. Do something fun or relaxing just for yourself.