Alzheimer's Support is Like Medicine for the Brain

It never stops amazing me how one Alzheimer's caregiver can give another Alzheimer's caregiver encouragement, energy, and the strength to carry on...By Bob DeMarcoAlzheimer's Reading RoomThere is no doubt in my mind that support from other Alzheimer's caregivers is likemedicine for the brain.I once wrote about the woman that came up to me in the gym, and then immediately called her husband over to listen to what I had to say.I talked nonstop for 20 minutes. Venting. It just poured out of me. They looked at me, right in the eyes, smiling, nodding affirmatively,as I went on and on.The Importance of Touch and Kindness in Dementia CareWhen I stopped,they shared their own Alzheimer's care experience with me. A similar experience. They gave me the smiles and encouragement. They answered my questions.But mostly, they listened.It took a few hours. But then suddenly,I felt like an enormous weight had been lifted off my shoulders. The support medicine was taking effect.This was one of several quick injections of support,support medicine, that started me on my way.This was truly the day(s) when I started to become the most effective Alzheimer's caregiver I could be.I often wonder what it would have been like if they hadn't stopped what they were doing, listened and encouraged me for 45 minutes.It didn't end there.10 Things a Person Living with Dementia Would Tell You If They CouldThe first time I wrote here on the Alzheimer's Reading Room about my mother being sick, I was shocked and su...
Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The - Category: Neurology Tags: alzheimers care alzheimers family alzheimers support Alzheimers support group brain care of dementia patients dementia care health life news Source Type: blogs