Cookeville Medical Clinic staff nurse Christina Bakle has cared for a diverse population of patients in a wide array of healthcare settings in Indiana, Ohio, and currently in Tennessee. In addition to her clinical experience, former Indiana resident Christina Bakle has cared for elderly patients in nursing homes and counseled families living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Nearly six million Americans are living with Alzheimer's, a number that is expected to rise as baby boomers age. Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia that diminishes the mental abilities of those affected.
Many people who have close relatives or partners with Alzheimer's find themselves taking on caregiving roles. Here are some strategies to help families cope with the changes Alzheimer's brings into their lives.
Partners are advised to spend quality time with their spouses and have new experiences together. Partners can also work together to draft a care plan informed by the ill husband's or wife’s wishes.
Alzheimer's commonly changes the nature of a marriage or relationship. Spouses of those with Alzheimer’s should take the time to care for themselves and seek outside help, which may be in the form of therapy or a support group.
Teenagers and young children may have a difficult time accepting the changes in their loved one. Parents and grandparents can make a routine of holding family meetings in which all members can discuss their feelings and roles in the care plan. People in the early stages of Alzheimer's can also create written or recorded keepsakes specifically for young family members.
