By Donald Ortiz, MD; Family Medicine – Optum New Mexico
If you’re caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you know the experience can be both rewarding and challenging. There may be moments of connection, laughter and love, but there are also days that feel overwhelming. As the disease progresses, you may find yourself taking on more responsibilities, from managing medications and appointments to helping your loved one with daily tasks and providing emotional support.
You are not alone. In New Mexico, more than 46,000 adults age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, and 68,000 unpaid caregivers help support them.
While every Alzheimer’s journey is different, there are practical steps you can take to help your loved one feel safe and supported while making the experience more manageable for yourself.
Learn what to expect
One of the most valuable things you can do as a caregiver is learn about Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s affects memory, thinking, communication and behavior. Over time, your loved one may need more help with daily activities such as eating, bathing and dressing. Learning about these changes before they happen can help you respond with greater patience and confidence when challenges arise.
Remember, you don’t need to have all the answers. The more you learn, the more equipped you’ll be to navigate each stage of the disease.
Create a daily routine
Living with Alzheimer’s can make the world feel confusing and unpredictable. A consistent daily routine can provide comfort and reduce anxiety for your loved one. Try to keep regular times for meals, medications, exercise, personal care and bedtime.
Communicate with patience
As Alzheimer’s progresses, communication may become more difficult. Your loved one may repeat questions, struggle to find words or become frustrated when they can’t express themselves.
When these situations happen, try to:
- Speak slowly and use simple language
- Ask one question at a time
- Offer reassurance rather than correction
- Redirect the conversation when frustration or confusion arises
Remember that many difficult behaviors are symptoms of the disease. Staying calm and looking for causes such as pain, hunger or fatigue can help defuse difficult situations.
Keep safety in mind
As Alzheimer’s progresses, safety often becomes a greater concern. Small changes around the home can make a big difference.
Consider:
- Removing tripping hazards, such as loose rugs
- Installing grab bars in bathrooms
- Locking up medications and dangerous household products
- Monitoring for wandering behaviors
You don’t have to make every change at once. Start with the areas that present the greatest risk and build from there.
Support independence when possible
It can be tempting to do everything for your loved one. But whenever it’s safe, encouraging independence can help preserve a sense of dignity and purpose.
Simple activities such as folding laundry, setting the table or choosing an outfit can help your loved one remain active in daily life.
Keep your loved one engaged
Meaningful activities can improve mood, reduce boredom and create opportunities for connection. Invite your loved one to join you in listening to music, looking through family photo albums, taking a walk or participating in community programs designed for people with dementia.
Build a support network
Many caregivers feel like they should be able to handle everything themselves, but Alzheimer’s care is often more than one person can manage long term.
Consider reaching out to:
- Family members and friends
- Faith communities
- Local senior services
- Caregiver support groups
- Professional home care providers
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it’s one of the most important things you can do for both yourself and your loved one.
Plan for the future
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means care needs will change over time. That’s why it’s important to discuss topics such as these early in the Alzheimer’s journey:
- Health care preferences
- Financial plans
- Legal documents
- Long-term care options
- Emergency caregiving plans
Planning ahead can reduce stress and help ensure your loved one’s wishes are respected.
Take care of yourself, too
Caregiver burnout is common and can include feelings of fatigue, worry, irritability or trouble focusing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.
It’s important to try to:
- Keep up with medical appointments
- Stay active and eat well
- Get adequate rest
- Stay connected with family and friends
Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. By protecting your own health and well-being, you’ll be better able to support your loved one over the long term.
A journey best traveled together
When caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, there will be good days and hard days. Give yourself grace through both. By learning about the disease, establishing routines, seeking support and caring for yourself, you can help your loved one live with dignity while maintaining your own resilience.
Most importantly, remember this: you do not have to do it alone. Help is available, and support is closer than you may think.
To learn more about Alzheimer’s or find local care for yourself of a loved one, visit optum.com/nm.
