Supporting a Loved One
Take Care of Yourself So You Can Take Care of Your Loved One
Whether you are a family member, friend or even a coworker, your role as a caregiver is essential and deserves to be recognized. Don’t forget that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one. A caregiver’s role can be demanding and exhausting, both physically and emotionally. To provide the best possible support, it is vital to look after your own well-being.
The Alzheimer Society of Montreal is here to support you every step of the way. We offer a range of programs and services to help you better understand the disease, support the person diagnosed and take care of yourself.
You Are Not Alone
Every day, many people like you are affected one way or another by Alzheimer’s disease or other neurocognitive disorders. Whether they’re caregivers, doctors or other healthcare professionals, their stories are poignant, and their advice will help you find answers to your questions and feel less alone as you are coping with this situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a Caregiver?
You are a caregiver if you provide regular support and care to someone living with a neurocognitive disorder, such as Alzheimer’s disease. This can include tasks such as assisting with daily activities, managing medication, accompanying the person to medical appointments and providing emotional support. Even if you don’t see yourself as a caregiver, if you are taking on these roles, that’s exactly what you are.
Am I eligible for caregiver subsidies?
Grants and financial assistance are available for caregivers. In Quebec, for example, you can qualify for tax credits, leave from work, and other forms of financial support. Don’t hesitate to consult local resources and government websites to find out about specific assistance available in your area.
Here are two Quebec government sites that may be useful to you.
What are Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders?
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that affects memory, thought and behaviour. Related diseases, such as Lewy Body Disease and Frontotemporal Degenerations, present similar symptoms, but have different mechanisms and treatments.
What are the early signs of a neurocognitive disorder?
Early signs include memory problems affecting daily functioning, difficulties with everyday tasks, language and communication problems, temporal and spatial confusion, impaired judgment, and difficulties with abstract concepts.
What Are the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease generally progresses through four stages:
The Mild Stage
At the mild stage of the disease, symptoms may include memory loss in those affected, changes in the way they communicate and behave, as well as in their mood and concentration. At this early stage of the disease, these people are still independent; they can talk about their experience with others and understand the changes that are taking place. When someone is diagnosed in the early stages, it can be an opportunity for them to be involved in decisions about the care and life path they want for themselves throughout the gradual progression of the disease.
The Moderate Stage
In the moderate stage of the disease, symptoms become more pronounced. It is becoming more difficult to carry out activities of daily living. Some people remain aware of their condition. At this stage, family caregivers can help people living with the disease to carry out the tasks they are still capable of performing.
The Advanced Stage
In the advanced stage of the disease, people living with a neurocognitive disorder diagnosis will require greater support to take care of themselves and will rely more on non-verbal communication to interact with family and healthcare providers. At this stage of the disease, people living with a neurocognitive disorder often require round-the-clock care and support to ensure optimal quality of life.
End of Life
At the end-of-life stage, care is needed 24 hours a day, and maintaining the person’s comfort is paramount.
As symptoms of the disease become increasingly present, care is provided to meet their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
How can I get a cognitive test for a family member?
To obtain a cognitive examination, you must first consult a doctor. They may refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or geriatrician, for more in-depth testing.
How do I prepare for medical appointments and decision-making when accompanying a loved one?
Before the appointment, prepare a list of concerns and questions, bring a list of all your family member’s medications and gather their medical history.
What is Ambiguous Loss and Grief?
Ambiguous loss is a type of loss experienced by caregivers of people diagnosed with a neurocognitive disorder, such as Alzheimer’s disease. It involves mourning the person as they were before the illness, even if they are still physically present. To learn more, read the article “Preparing for ambiguous loss and grief involving a close family member with Alzheimer’s disease.”
The Alzheimer Society of Montreal offers a workshop for caregivers to help them better cope with ambiguous loss. To find out more, consult our public lectures program.
How can I help someone important to me who’s been diagnosed with a neurocognitive disorder?
Be there to listen, offer emotional support, and educate yourself about the disease to better understand what your loved one is going through. It is also essential to maintain open and respectful communication. To learn more, read the article “Communicating with a person who has a neurocognitive disorder.”
The Alzheimer Society of Montreal offers a workshop for caregivers to help them adapt their communication with a loved one diagnosed with a neurocognitive disorder. To find out more, consult our public lectures program.
What are the best strategies for reducing caregiver stress?
To reduce stress, you need to take care of yourself. You may also ask for help when needed, practise relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga, and participate in support groups.
For more services available to caregivers, consult the following resources:
Activities and Services Offered
The Alzheimer Society of Montreal offers a wide range of activities and services for people living with a neurocognitive disorder, as well as the caregivers who support them daily. These include stimulating therapeutic activities and respite care, as well as recreational and artistic activities, and even training to help people learn to cope better with the diagnosis. Everything is done to provide you with human and caring support.
Some activities are designed specifically for the person living with Alzheimer’s, while others are offered alongside a caregiver.
We Are Here for You!
Our team is always available to support you on your journey with a neurocognitive disorder. Contact us today.
