Dealing with the Impact of Alzheimer's Disease on Families

Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that has a life-changing impact on those diagnosed.

The illness is the most common cause of dementia, which gradually worsens a person’s memory, cognitive abilities and behaviour.

Understanding the effects of Alzheimer’s is crucial for caregivers and loved ones as they seek to provide the best possible care.

In this article, we’ll cover how you can support someone with the condition and how you, as a caregiver, can get the help you need.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is a physical illness that damages the brain, leading to the progressive symptoms of dementia. Early signs of the disease can include:

Memory problems
Difficulty thinking and reasoning
Changes in mood and perception
Language problems

With Alzheimer’s, these symptoms will worsen over time and require increasing levels of care and support as the disease develops.

Whilst the cause of the illness is complex, the build-up of specific proteins in the brain is a key contributor. These proteins, amyloid and tau, form plaques and tangles that disrupt normal brain function. Over time, this damage reduces the essential chemicals the brain needs to send messages.

Eventually, the brain struggles to cope with the damage, leading to the person having problems with memory and thinking. The stage where these problems make it difficult for the person to perform everyday tasks is called dementia.

The impact on families

The whole family is affected when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia. Roles often shift suddenly, with spouses, children, and even friends taking on new responsibilities.

Often, partners become primary caregivers, and children take on more active roles in their parent’s care.

These changes in family dynamics can be challenging to accept and difficult to balance. It’s common that the increased responsibility leads to feelings of confusion, frustration, and anger. With the person with Alzheimer’s now the focal point of the family’s attention, other members may feel neglected, resentful or guilty.

Such feelings arise from being unable to keep their loved one at home longer or by feeling upset by their changing behaviour.

Managing relationship changes

Alzheimer’s doesn’t diminish a person’s need for affection. However, it does change many aspects of relationships. Partners may struggle with the loss of companionship and emotional connection.

Some family members may find it difficult to accept the diagnosis or may distance themselves due to the emotional strain. Meanwhile, others might step up in ways they hadn’t before, creating a new sense of closeness within the family.

Still, disagreements over care decisions or financial matters can arise, adding another layer of stress to an already strenuous situation.

Coping with the stress of caregiving

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a demanding and often exhausting role. Often caregivers need a break from their responsibilities. They may seek help by:

Asking family members to take on specific tasks
Seeking professional care support
Finding time for self-care

Open communication with family and friends also helps distribute the emotional and physical burden of caregiving.

While the disease may change how families interact, finding new ways to connect and spend time together is essential. Taking a walk, sharing memories, or enjoying activities are simple ways to sustain relationships through difficult times.

Additionally, caregivers should prioritise self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or engaging in hobbies they enjoy. Taking time out is not selfish, but a necessary part of maintaining the strength needed to care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s.

Seeking Professional Support

Dealing with the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease is not something families should do alone.

Professional support, whether through a domiciliary care provider, counselling services, or organisations like the Alzheimer’s Society, can offer guidance and relief.

These resources can help families manage the practical aspects of caregiving, such as legal and financial planning while providing emotional support.

Alzheimer’s disease is not just a diagnosis for one person. The illness has a profound impact on relationships, roles, and emotions.

But it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With professional support and a commitment to finding new ways to connect and care, families can navigate Alzheimer’s disease together, with hope and optimism.