The Caregiver’s Self-Care Guide

Living with dementia is demanding, putting strain on caregivers that has lasting impact. Although dementia has different diagnoses—whether it’s Alzheimer’s Parkinson’s Disease, Lewey Body Dementia or other forms of memory loss—the strain on the caregiver is a proven fact. That’s why our professionals at Thoughtful Care have put together a self-care guide for those caring for loved ones with dementia.

In the “Caregiver’s Self-Care Checklist” video, you’ll find helpful tips and ideas from Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City.

Watch the “Caregiver’s Self-Care Checklist” video below:

Caregivers who provide care for persons with dementia risk comprising their immune systems for up to 3 years after their caregiving experience ends, thus increasing their chances of developing a chronic illness themselves. [National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP. (2009)]

About 40% of family caregivers of people with dementia suffer from depression compared to 5-17% of non-caregivers of similar ages. Rates of depression increase with the severity of cognitive impairment of the person with dementia. [Alzheimer’s Association. (2015)]

Caregivers can be spouses, children, neighbors or friends. They can live in Prairie Village, in Kansas City, in Leawood or in other Kansas City suburbs. They may be in their golden years or they may be parents of small children. But one thing caregivers have in common is that they feel true effects of caring for someone with dementia. So take a deep breath, know that you are not alone, and take care of yourself!

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the  Thoughtful Care website.