More than 80 percent of Alzheimer caregivers report they frequently experience high levels of stress, and nearly half say they suffer from depression. Many caregivers do not recognize their needs, fail to do anything about them, or simply do not know where to turn for help. Too much stress can be damaging to caregivers and the person being cared for. Recognizing the signs and learning how to reduce stress can help.

• Denial
• Anger
• Social withdrawal
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Exhaustion
• Sleeplessness
• Irritability
• Lack of concentration
• Health problems

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If you treat caregivers who experience several of these symptoms on a regular basis, you might advise them to:

• Learn what resources are available in their community
• Become educated about Alzheimer’s disease and caregiving techniques
• Get help from family, friends, and community resources
• Take care of themselves by watching their diet, exercising, and getting plenty of rest
• Manage their stress levels by using relaxation techniques and checking back with you
• Accept changes as they occur
• Engage in legal and financial planning early in the disease process
• Be realistic about what they can do
• Give themselves credit for what they accomplish, and not give in to guilt if they lose patience or can not do everything on their own.

© Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association, Inc.

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