How alzheimer's affects families?

Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that feels far beyond just the individual diagnosed with the disease. The effects vary from family to family due to many different variables such as the stage of the disease, the family’s support network, access to medical care, and financial resources.

Spouses - For a spouse, the impact can be felt the most intensely. Due to the nature of the relationship, they may be exposed to the most severe symptoms with the most frequency. If they are dealing with health issues of their own, they may be conflicted, resulting in poor self-care. If the spouse diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease was their spouse’s caregiver, it could result in one or both being moved to a care facility and possibly separated. Fears of an unknown future and the grieving of a planned future no longer possible can occur.  Depending on their relationship, a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can be a bonding experience for spouses; however, it can also result in spousal alienation.

Adult children – Adult children may become the primary caregiver of their parents and experience the difficulties of role reversal. They, too, may have health issues and find themselves neglecting their own needs to care for their parent. Some adult children can experience intense emotions such as anger, resentment, fear, and feeling overwhelmed. If the adult child has a family of their own, they may struggle with where to give their attention.

Younger Children – Young children may struggle with the changes occurring in their loved one and, depending on their age, may have difficulty comprehending what is happening. They may also experience intense emotions such as sadness and fear and cannot express these emotions clearly. Children should be educated on the disease and encouraged to ask questions when they are confused.

Support for family members can come from various sources such as friends, co-workers, neighbors, teachers, counselors, support groups, medical staff, and online education. If you know someone with a family member struggling with Alzheimer’s Disease and unsure how to help them, just being present can be a support.