November is National Caregivers Month and Alzheimer’s Awareness month. The caregiver journey becomes increasingly more complicated when caring for someone with a memory disorder. The need for resources, options, and support during this journey is paramount for successful outcomes. http://www.caregiverresource.net/ 

Here at NSES we speak with caregivers on a daily basis. We often hear from caregivers whose life has been greatly improved when they finally received some help in caring for their loved one. Recently a woman called to let us know that the support group saved her life. While that statement may seem to be quite dramatic, there is some truth in what she said.

Paul Raia, Ph.D., Director, Family Support & Patient Care, Alzheimer’s. Association of Eastern Massachusetts has suggested that the best predictor of successful caregiving is found when the caregivers learn to take care of themselves first. He suggests that caregivers who get less than the bare minimum of six hours of respite per week are at significantly greater risk of illness, depression and even death. http://alz.org/index.asp

So, remember to take care of yourself every day. One person cannot do it all; get help from family members, friends, and professionals. Seek out information, resources and options from agencies such as North Shore Elder Services. www.nselder.org Join a Support Group where you can share concerns with others, learn new resources and get professional advising. http://alzheimerspartnership.org/