In honor of World Alzheimer’s Day, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) encourages residents to learn more about risk-reduction methods and show support for those who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.
World Alzheimer’s Day is observed on September 21 each year and is part of World Alzheimer’s Month.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, worldwide, 55 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common cause of dementia. Dementia is not a specific disease. It’s an overall term that describes a group of symptoms.
Caring for a person with dementia can be challenging, both emotionally and practically. Some common struggles include:
Emotional distress
Caregivers may feel a range of emotions, including anger, sadness, frustration, loneliness, and guilt. They may also feel grief, as if they are losing the person they once knew.
Physical toll
Caregivers may experience health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or a weaker immune system. They may also lose or gain weight, or get sick more often.
Time commitment
Caregiving can be time-consuming, and caregivers may need to take on multiple roles, such as providing physical care, housekeeping, medical management, and financial management.
Social isolation
Caregivers may withdraw socially and no longer want to participate in activities they once enjoyed.
Burnout
Caregiving can lead to caregiver burnout, which can have negative outcomes.
In an effort to combat caregiver burnout, the Area Agency on Aging offers, Thursday Thoughts with the Guys. Thursday Thoughts is a support group for men who are providing care to a loved one with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Dementia. Thursday Thoughts meets virtually (on-line or call in) the second Thursday of each month from 4:00 to 5:30. The event is hosted by The Family Caregiver Support Program. To register call Rhonda at 843-473-3973 or Dena at 843-473-3957. Male support group are beneficial because it provides a safe space for men to share their experiences, feelings, and challenges with others who understand, fostering a sense of community, reducing isolation, and improving coping mechanisms by allowing them to learn from each other’s struggles and gain support in dealing with a loved one who has a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Dementia.
