Alzheimer’s Caregivers–“Til Death Do Us Part”

*Additional information courtesy of Lauren Cramer

It attacks the brain and is the most common type of dementia–this is Alzheimer’s. There is no age requirement when it comes to the early onset of Alzheimer’s. We tend to think of our parents and grandparents when we think of Alzheimer’s, but the youngest person diagnosed with it was only 27.

The stories below are some of the examples of what it means when one states in their wedding vow: “til death do us part”. Each one of these has taken a different approach.

Mike and Carol’s journey was one that Mike was determined to make with her at home. Over the course of 10 years, and with his health failing both mentally and physically, he had to make a decision. A decision that was the best for both of them. Mike decided that even with 24-hour-a-day caregivers, Carol needed more. He decided to put her into a facility.

As some caregivers think back over time, they realize there may have been signs they may have missed. As Barry Petersen talks about his wife, he tells how she changed years earlier before she was diagnosed.

All of the caregivers vowed always to take care of their spouses. They realized that taking care of them meant they must face the difficult decision to put their loved one into a care facility, not only for their care but for the care of themselves.

Please take a look at Barry and Jan and their journey with Alzheimer’s. Jan has since passed away.

Dan and B were the “it” couple that I watched on her weekly lifestyle show. From their beautifully decorated home in Sag Harbor to her wonderful restaurant I visited in Washington, DC. They seemed to be living the dream until….. As of the writing of this article, B. Smith remains at her home in Sag Harbor with Dan.

One important takeaway from all three cases is that couples should talk about their wishes if they become afflicted by this disease. The caregiver should have instructions that will make his/her decision on care much easier and with less guilt.

As we mature, we do seem to forget more, which does not mean that we have Alzheimer’s. The chart below is a simple way to explain the difference.

Alzheimer’s came to my family with my paternal grandmother. It was something that seemed to strike out of nowhere, and life-altering decisions had to be made immediately. My grandfather had died years earlier, but I know that he would have been like the spouses above; he would take care of his wife as she had always taken care of him. Even though in the later years of his life he was in failing health, he would be determined–“til death do us part.” Some conversations are hard to have but a necessity as life continues.

Remember “thisisyourbestyear”. Caring for someone does not mean doing it alone; resources exist.

Try these sites and others for information on being a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s Support Programs and Information

National Institute on Aging

AARP Help and Support for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

*Most would agree the brain is our most vital organ, and keeping it healthy is incredibly important to our overall wellness.  While it is normal to experience some cognitive decline over time, many don’t know there are ways to keep our brains sharp as we age.

To that end, the team at the NCOA created a comprehensive resource on how to keep your brain fit to help.  This piece explains:

• Cognition, cognitive decline, and how aging affects the brain
• How our physical health affects cognitive health
• Lifestyle changes to optimize brain function

Plus, it provides guidance on spotting misleading information that promises to prevent cognitive decline.