November is National Family Caregivers Month. As we enter a season of gratitude, we want to take a moment to show our appreciation for the nearly 12 million Americans providing unpaid care for loved ones living with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia.
Here at the Alzheimer's Association, we are committed to providing care and support to all those impacted by Alzheimer's, including the dedicated caregivers. We're also accelerating research toward new treatments and, ultimately, a cure for this devastating disease. The generosity of kind-hearted people like you makes it all possible.
Anita Gaillard, holding a photo of her husband, Teal Clay Gaillard, who passed away from Alzheimer's disease.
One Caregiver's Journey with Alzheimer's: Anita's Story.
My journey with Alzheimer's began when my mother was diagnosed with this disease. I witnessed my dad step into the caregiver role and saw all the challenges he faced as we watched my mom's symptoms progress. Little did I know that I, too, would become a caregiver — for my husband.
I was connected with the Alzheimer's Association during my mom's fight with Alzheimer's. My family wanted to learn more about ways to be prepared and how to navigate the different stages of the disease. We also learned about the signs and symptoms to look out for. That is how I began to recognize the changes in my husband.
He began having trouble processing things and would get lost going to familiar places. After several doctors' visits and a lot of testing, we received the devastating diagnosis of Alzheimer's, and I became a caregiver.
It was heartbreaking to watch the man I love disappear. It sometimes felt like my world was falling apart, but I was determined to provide the best care and fight back against this disease that has stolen so much from me.
That is why I support the Alzheimer's Association, and why I hope you will join me. The Association has given me hope on my darkest days because they're providing care and support to people who are fighting Alzheimer's like my late husband — as well as to caregivers like me. I'm also hopeful because I know the Association is working to find new treatments that could help slow the progression of this disease. Research will give people like me more time with loved ones, and — believe me — it's the most precious gift you can give.
Every day, more people are diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and more family members and friends become their dedicated caregivers. They'll make great sacrifices as they take on more responsibilities, all while dealing with the pain and grief of watching their loved one slip away. It's a physically, emotionally and financially draining role. Just look at the numbers from last year alone.
Providing Peace This Holiday Season Amid Caregiving Stress.
We all experience some stress around the holiday season, but there is an added layer of stress and sadness that comes at this time of year, while caring for someone living with Alzheimer's.
As we approach the holidays, one of the most meaningful gifts you can give a caregiver is time. Just a small break each day can help reduce stress and prevent burnout. Here are a few thoughtful gift ideas for caregivers:
Assist with household tasks like cleaning, cooking or yard work to offer a much-needed rest.
Provide gift cards for services such as meal delivery, laundry or personal care.
Share books on caregiving, self-care or something on a caregiver's "must-read" list.
Offer self-care items such as moisturizers, bath bombs or pampering services.
We have many important resources for people living with Alzheimer's or another dementia and their caregivers as they face this disease. The sacrifice made by caregivers is tremendous, and juggling new responsibilities while experiencing stress, isolation and uncertainty often lead to mental and physical exhaustion. Caregivers deserve a community they can turn to when their situation becomes overwhelming. We are devoted to fostering that community — because every caregiver deserves connection, encouragement and a space to ask questions and find comfort during difficult moments.
For more information on how the Association can support caregivers with the help of your generosity, visit alz.org/caregiving.
Our ability to provide care and support for both caregivers and individuals living with Alzheimer's, and to accelerate critical research, depends on your generosity. Right now, you can make an even greater impact during our Power Our Progress 3X Match. Please consider donating today while you can make three times the difference and help further our mission to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.
Your donation will strengthen our efforts to advance Alzheimer's care, support and research. From face-to-face support to online education programs and promising global research initiatives, your gift makes a difference in the lives of all those affected by Alzheimer's and other dementias in your community and across the world. Thank you for your continued support.
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