COPING WITH ALZHEIMER'S ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

September 6, 2023

Alzheimer’s is a devastating, progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions. Though memory loss and confusion are the main symptoms, depression and anxiety are also very real struggles for those living with Alzheimer’s. In fact, experts estimate that up to 40 percent of people with Alzheimer's disease suffer from significant depression. It is not surprising that depression is associated with Alzheimer's as those who live with this disease face the realization of the very real toll this illness will have on their lives. If you are caring for a loved one with this difficult disease, at some point you will likely have to deal with the anxiety and depression of Alzheimer's. But there are many things you can do to help someone who has Alzheimer depression.

 

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, identifying depression in someone with Alzheimer's can be difficult, since dementia can cause some of the same symptoms. Signs of depression can include: apathy, social withdrawal, loss of interest in hobbies or activities, trouble concentrating and impaired thinking. If you think your loved one may be suffering from depression here are some ways to help:

 

  1. Let Them Contribute. Help your loved one feel appreciated and respected. Find ways they can still contribute and thank them for their efforts. Praising them can help lift their spirits and make them feel better.
  2. Let Them Know They Are Loved. Those living with Alzheimer's face losing the person they once were. Let them know that they are loved, respected and an important part of the family. Help them realize that their value to those who love them will never be diminished.
  3. Let Them Know They Are Not Alone. Provide reassurance that they will never be abandoned or face this disease alone. They have support from family and their medical team who will remain by their side with expert care. Reassure them that they are safe and protected.
  4. Educate Yourself. It’s important to learn as much as you can about Alzheimer's. Understanding the disease progression will help you anticipate challenges, reduce fear of the unknown, and help you make informed decisions.
  5. Establish a Daily Routine. Maintaining a regular routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability, which can help reduce anxiety for patients and caregivers.
  6. Create A Smoothing Environment. Create a pleasant environment that uplifts their spirit and soothes fear or anxiety. Make sure to include things they love and are familiar with. Try to avoid loud noises or over stimulation. Think calm, quiet and pampering.
  7. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques. Techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation can help manage stress and anxiety.
  8. Be Aware of Triggers. Think ahead and avoid situations that might trigger anxiety or distress for the patient.
  9. Encourage Activities. Find activities that can divert their attention like music, art, crafting or taking a walk.
  10. Manage Expectations. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease and certain changes in behavior and memory are part of the condition. Understanding that and managing your expectations will reduce frustration and disappointment.

 

 

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

As a caregiver, if you see signs of depression, discuss them with your loved one’s physician. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help improve their quality of life. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommends that adults be screened for depression.

Your loved one’s physician may prescribe medication to help control symptoms and improve their emotional health and wellbeing. Medications can be helpful but it will be important for you as their caregiver to understand side effects and to ensure they are taken as prescribed.

ACCEPT SUPPORT AND PRACTICE SELF CARE

When caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s it's important to ensure your own wellbeing. This disease plays emotional havoc on all those who love the person living with Alzheimer's but it is the family caregiver who will bear the most of the burden. As the disease progresses so will your responsibilities to your loved one. It’s important that you don’t sacrifice your own wellbeing and health. Accepting support will be critical in ensuring your ability to continue to provide the best care for your loved one.


Understanding when to seek an extra layer of support can help you ensure your ability to continue to provide the best care possible for your loved one. When to gain support for Alzheimer’s caregiving is a personal decision and different for every family. But Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease where symptoms get much worse over time. As your loved one’s disease progresses into late-stage Alzheimer’s it will become more challenging to manage their needs, ensure their comfort and protect your own well-being without extra support. Our blog 7 Signs It’s Time For Extra Support shares insights on when discussing hospice or palliative care makes sense


Ascend Health offers specialized care for those living with end-stage Alzheimer’s. Our supportive team focuses on improving quality of life and easing the distressing burdens of Alzheimer’s. Learn more about how we can help bring comfort and support by reaching out to a member of our compassionate team.


June 30, 2025
A few months ago, beloved actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found deceased in their New Mexico home. Investigators believe Arakawa passed away first—possibly up to a week before Hackman. Shortly before her death, she had reached out to a local clinic . Later, Hackman’s pacemaker data helped confirm the timeline of his own passing. The medical examiner determined that Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome , a rare and dangerous respiratory illness transmitted by rodents. Hackman died from advanced heart disease , with Alzheimer’s disease contributing to his decline. Experts suggest that his cognitive impairment likely prevented him from recognizing Arakawa’s death—or, if he did realize it, he may have experienced confusion, heartbreak, and helplessness before ultimately passing away himself. We may consider Gene Hackman’s last role to be his final lesson, a wake-up call for caregivers and families. It’s a profoundly tragic story—one that reflects a reality many families quietly face. As our loved ones age, especially when one becomes the caregiver, a sudden health crisis can leave the other stranded in a dangerous situation. What Can We Learn? This heartbreaking story offers more than grief—it offers perspective. It’s a reminder to be proactive, observant, and involved in the lives of aging loved ones. Here’s ways we can help. 1. Know the Conditions Affecting Your Loved Ones In Hackman’s case, the central health challenges were heart disease and Alzheimer’s. Recognizing the signs of heart trouble—chest pain, fatigue, breathlessness—and understanding how dementia can mask or confuse those symptoms is critical. 2. Caregivers Need Care Too When the caregiver goes down, the one who relies on them is suddenly exposed. Arakawa’s sudden illness likely left Hackman alone, disoriented, and unable to seek help. Caregivers often suffer in silence, pushing past their limits. Regular check-ins and support for them are just as essential. 3. A Simple Visit Can Save a Life A timely visit from a friend or relative might have changed the outcome. Subtle signs—rodent activity, spoiled food, confusion, hygiene issues—could have triggered help before it was too late. Don’t underestimate the power of simply showing up. What to Watch For: A Family Checklist If you have aging parents, relatives, or friends, here are some key areas to keep an eye on: Physical Health • Sudden weight loss or gain • Bruises, burns, or signs of falls • Unkempt appearance or body odor • Difficulty walking or standing Cognitive & Emotional Well-being • Memory loss or repeating questions • Depression, anxiety, or social withdrawal • Unsafe behavior such as leaving appliances on • Unusual mail or phone activity Home Conditions • Spoiled food, pest presence, or clutter • Safety hazards (dim lighting, loose rugs) • Appliances or plumbing not working Nutrition & Kitchen Safety • Expired food or low food supply • Dirty or neglected kitchen tools • Avoiding cooking altogether Medication Compliance • Confused about medications or missed doses • Expired or improperly labeled prescriptions Social Interaction • Isolation or reluctance to leave the house • Loss of interest in hobbies or community involvement Financial Awareness • Unpaid bills or unopened mail • Signs of financial exploitation or scams Tech & Communication • Can they use a phone in an emergency? • Are they responsive to calls or messages? What To Do If You Notice a Problem If you see red flags, don’t panic—but don’t ignore them either. Start with an honest, caring conversation. Explain that your concern comes from love, not judgment. Then, consider next steps: • Schedule a check-up with their doctor • Bring in help, even part-time support • Assess whether the home needs modifications • Explore new living arrangements if necessary Whether it’s weekly dinners, video chats, or simple texts—stay involved–consistent contact keeps you in tune with your loved ones’ needs and builds a safety net they may not even know they need. Final Thought If Gene Hackman’s last role is to serve as a final lesson, it’s a wake-up call for caregivers and families. Gene Hackman’s final days are a sobering reminder: Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Aging can be beautiful—but it also comes with risk, especially in solitude. Let this story motivate you to reconnect, check in, and truly see how your loved ones are doing. Additional Resources: Learn more about Congestive Heart Failure: https://www.ascendhealth.com/caring-for-a-loved-one-with-chf-this-summer https://www.ascendhealth.com/caring-for-a-loved-one-with-chf Learn more about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease: https://www.ascendhealth.com/alzheimers-caregiving-7-signs-its-time-for-extra-support https://www.ascendhealth.com/coping-with-alzheimers-anxiety-and-depression Need a health or safety assessment for a loved one? Contact Us or call today.
May 27, 2025
Honoring your dad on Father’s Day after he has passed can be a meaningful and healing experience. Here are ten ways to remember and celebrate him: 1 - Wear or Carry Something of His – A watch, a shirt, a piece of jewelry—something that belonged to him can provide comfort and keep his presence close. 2 - Dedicate a Song or Playlist – Create a playlist of songs that remind you of moments you’ve shared together. 3 - Recreate a moment in time – Recreate a favorite memory (fishing trip, movie night, road trip) 4 - Plan a Dad’s night out - plan an outing to one of his favorite places. It could be a restaurant, a game, or simply a scenic spot. 5 - Plan a Dad’s night in - Invite family and friends over to reminisce and serve a buffet of his favorite foods. 6 - Build Something Meaningful - if you’re good with your hands, build something he would have liked. If you’re not you can always buy something like a bird house and mount it outside in his honor or have a memory bear made from some of his favorite clothes. 7 - Frame Something – buy a store-bought frame or go to a frame shop. Frame a quote, his quote or one that he liked. Or frame a photo of one of his favorite things like a sports team photo, a movie scene image, or a favorite athlete or musician. 8 - Create a Video or Slideshow – Gather old photos and videos, and compile them into a slideshow with music that he loved. 9 - Honor His Legacy – Start an interactive tradition in his honor like a family gathering, storytelling night, or community service. 10 - Plant Forget-me-nots in a favorite place or deliver potted Forget-me-nots to others that miss him too. No matter how you choose to honor your dad, focus on the love you have for him and realize and embrace that he loved you. He wouldn’t want you to cry all day, he would want you to smile and remember the good moments. Read also how to survive your first Father’s day without Dad .