Caring for Yourself as a Caregiver

Caring for a loved one with dementia is meaningful but can be exhausting. You need support, too. 

Ways to Take Care of Yourself 

• Ask for help. Have someone visit, cook, or stay with your loved one. 
• Join a support group in your area or online. 
• Stay connected to your own hobbies, friends, and family. 
• Eat healthy, exercise, and rest when you can. 

What You’re Feeling Is Normal  

• You may feel anger, sadness, or guilt. These are normal emotions. 
• You are doing your best. This work is not easy. 
• You can’t control everything. Alzheimer’s symptoms will continue no matter how hard you try. 
• Focus on small wins. Enjoy peaceful moments when they come.

Top Tip: A problem shared is a problem halved. You must try and build a team and a network of support so that you don’t have to tackle this alone. This team may be comprised of friends, family members, a medical team, other care professionals, and other caregivers going through the same journey as you. Having others you can lean on, both to share the caregiver burden and to ask for advice/guidance, is so critical as you navigate an incredibly challenging journey. 

FAQs

Is it selfish to ask for help as a dementia caregiver?

No. Taking care of yourself helps you care better for others.  

What if I feel overwhelmed? 

Take breaks, speak with someone, or join a support group. There is always help available to you.

Do I have to do everything alone? 

Absolutely not. Share the load when you can. Doing everything alone is likely to lead to burnout or other issues. It’s also not good for your loved one with dementia if they only receive care from one person. This is a form of isolation.