When you're living with a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer's
disease you must be able to survive one emotional upheaval after
another. What is most important during this difficult time is that you
not only survive the physical demands placed on you as the primary
caregiver, but that you learn to cope effectively with the emotional
turmoil and preserve the quality of your own life in the process.
Caregivers have been known to put their own lives on hold and become
entirely devoted to caregiving-making this difficult role even harder,
and often compromising their own health. This needn't happen. The
caregivers you will meet in this book, with whom you have much in
common, have learned how to deal with the frustration, anger, and grief
that come naturally to any person in this role. Through their poignant
stories and personal experiences you will find the strength that you
need to care for your loved one while remaining emotionally committed as
the mutuality of your partnership fades. Loving and nurturing while
letting go is the paradox of Alzheimer's caregiving. You can learn from
the caregivers in this book what you need to do to create a satisfying
life that meshes with your role as caregiver. You will ultimately be
able to make the right decisions and minimize the chaos that can
overwhelm you. Within are the tools you need to manage the stressors of
your changing and challenging world.