For Caregivers: Supporting a Loved One and Yourself

If you are a caregiver for someone experiencing cognitive changes, your role is incredibly important and often challenging. Your observations are vital for the medical team, and your support is essential for your loved one’s quality of life. It is just as important, however, to take care of yourself.

Communicate with Patience: Use short, simple sentences. Make eye contact and call the person by name to get their attention. Listen patiently and avoid arguing or correcting them if they say something that isn’t true, as this can cause agitation. Instead, respond to the emotion behind the statement and gently redirect.

Create a Safe and Supportive Environment: As cognitive abilities change, you may need to adapt the home. This can include labeling drawers and cabinets, removing tripping hazards, and installing safety devices like automatic stove shut-offs. The goal is to encourage independence while ensuring safety.

Prioritize Your Own Well-being: Caregiver burnout is a serious risk. You cannot pour from an empty cup. It is essential to seek respite—a short period of rest or relief. This could be asking another family member to step in for a few hours, hiring professional in-home help, or exploring adult day programs. Find a local or online caregiver support group. Connecting with others who understand your situation can provide emotional validation and practical advice. The Alzheimer’s Association offers extensive resources for caregivers.

Protect Against Fraud and Scams: People with cognitive impairment are particularly vulnerable to financial exploitation. Be vigilant about suspicious phone calls, emails, and mail. A simple rule is to “pause and verify.” If a call or message creates a sense of urgency—demanding immediate payment or information—it’s likely a scam. Hang up or delete the message. You can then independently verify the supposed issue by calling the company or agency directly using a number from an official website or statement. Report attempted scams to the Federal Trade Commission.