While researchers continue to search for ways to reverse and cure Alzheimer's disease, it is the increased attention, support and recognition afforded to caregivers that is perhaps the most promising recent development in Alzheimer's care. The burden of caring for a person with AD is well known. As the patient's condition progresses, caregivers often find themselves cut off from their friends and regular social activities. Caregiving has even been tied to an increase in depression, compromised immune responses, and a greater use of medication and psychotropic drugs. Few caregivers are prepared for this impact.
Inadequate training is one of the biggest obstacles to quality caregiving.
But AD presents a substantially different set of challenges than raising children. The personality and behavioral changes a patient may undergo in the early stages of dementia can baffle the unprepared caregiver. And because each Alzheimer's case is unique, this training must be highly individualized. For some people incontinence is the last straw. Whenever possible, caregivers should also consider hired companions, home health aids and even nursing assistance.