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.

10 ways to honor the memory of Mom this Mother’s Day

April 28, 2025
Losing a mother is never easy, and Mother’s Day can be an emotional time. Honoring her memory in meaningful ways can bring comfort and keep her spirit alive. Here are ten thoughtful ways to honor the memory of Mom this Mother’s Day: 1. Visit Her Resting Place Spend time at her gravesite or memorial, bringing fresh flowers, her favorite items, or just sitting and reflecting on her love and legacy. 2. Cook Her Favorite Meal Prepare a dish she loved or a recipe she passed down. Sharing a meal in her honor can be a comforting way to feel close to her. 3. Write Her a Letter Express how much you miss her, update her on your life, or share a special memory. Writing can be a powerful way to process emotions and keep her close. 4. Light a Candle in Her Memory Lighting a candle in her honor can be a quiet, reflective way to feel her presence and express your love. 5. Look Through Old Photos & Videos Take time to revisit cherished moments by flipping through photo albums or watching home videos . It’s a beautiful way to celebrate her life and legacy. 6. Do Something She Loved Whether it’s gardening, painting, reading, or taking a walk in nature, engaging in her favorite activities can be a meaningful tribute. 7. Make a Donation in Her Name Give to a charity or cause she cared about . It’s a wonderful way to extend her kindness and make a difference in her honor. 8. Create a Memory Book or Scrapbook Compile photos, letters, and stories into a scrapbook or digital memory book that keeps her spirit alive for future generations. 9. Plant a Tree or Flowers in Her Honor Planting something in her memory can be a lasting tribute, symbolizing growth, love, and the continuation of her legacy. 10. Spend Time with Family & Share Stories Gather with loved ones to reminisce, share stories, and celebrate the love she gave. Keeping her memory alive through storytelling can be healing and uplifting. No matter how you choose to honor your mom, the most important thing is to celebrate the love and impact she had on your life. We hope these 10 ways to honor the memory of Mom this Mother’s Day helps readers celebrate this Mother’s Day. Also read here about surviving the first Mother’s Day without Mom .

12 Important Things To Understand About Hospice

February 27, 2025
Our expert care enriches life by controlling symptoms and managing pain, while also caring for the mind and spirit. Hospice often becomes a choice when you or a loved one is seeking relief from frequent emergency room visits or are physically or emotionally tired of challenging treatments that no longer have a positive impact on life expectancy or quality of life. Serious illness affects more than just a loved one. So, our support extends to family caregivers . We become an extra layer of support by sharing our experience and resources to ensure that you and your loved ones feel prepared by knowing what to expect as illness progresses. We also help you feel less overwhelmed by sharing in some of the responsibilities of the day-to-day care of your loved one. We also understand the worry that comes with serious illness. When a loved one is living with a serious illness, a price can’t be put on peace of mind. Here 12 things that are important to understand about hospice. 1 - Hospice is a philosophy of care that treats a person rather than the disease. Hospice is a complete and cohesive program of medical care and emotional/spiritual support to improve the quality of life for patients facing a life-limiting illness. 2 - When treatment is no longer effective or desired, hospice care can be provided for pain relief and symptom control , along with emotional and spiritual support for patients and loved ones. 3 - Hospice care takes a holistic approach focusing on both physical and emotional health. 4 - In most cases, a family member serves as the primary caregiver and helps make decisions for their loved one. 5 - The caregiver works with our team to develop a plan of care to provide treatment, support, and personal care. 6 - Your physician remains in charge of the overall medical care, we become a part of his team. 7 - Hospice isn’t giving up. It’s finding comfort and dignity after you’ve been told nothing more can be done. 8 - You are free to leave a hospice program at any time for any reason without penalty. You can re-enroll in a hospice program any time that you meet the medical eligibility criteria. 9 - Medications and medical interventions are used regularly to control pain and symptoms. 10 - Hospice patients live an average of 29 days longer than those that do not receive hospice care. 11 - Hospice care is provided anywhere your loved one lives, including private residences, assisted living communities, and long-term care facilities. 12 - Our care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance companies. We understand that choosing to stop curative treatments and begin care and comfort services can be overwhelming. If you have questions like ' is now the right time’ or if you wonder ‘when will the right time be”, you can call and speak to one of our clinical directors. An Ascend nurse or social worker can meet with you and your family members and provide information on all of the services available to you. Once you are ready your physician, our team of nurses, our medical director, and our chaplains, social workers, and aides will be with you and your family on every part of your journey ensuring that your care and comfort are our first priority.