Community Offers Support for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia can take a toll on caregivers. It’s a challenging and complicated task, with many caregivers experiencing substantial emotional, financial and physical difficulties. Some are so immersed in the role that they often neglect their own health, leading half of all caregivers to die before their loved one.

Recognizing the unique needs of this population, The Watermark at Vistawilla – an assisted living and memory care community in Winter Springs – is offering free resources and support groups to local memory care caregivers. The support group, facilitated by Visiting Angels, meets at the community on the third Wednesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. It is free of charge and open to the public.

“Hearing that a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is something that no one ever wants to hear, but you don’t have to go it alone,” said Karyn Brinkley, Executive Director of The Watermark at Vistawilla. “Our hope is that these resources will provide caregivers with the tools and support they need to successfully navigate the disease and care for themselves and their loved one.”

From these groups, common themes typically emerge. Topics include advice for achieving the best, most positive outcomes for loved ones as well as the importance of education, support and maintaining a healthy balance with selfcare. Below are a few ways that caregivers can incorporate these into their everyday life.

• Educate yourself. First and foremost, speak with trusted medical experts to get an accurate diagnosis, as this will help with treatment and education. Then, learn about each stage of the disease and what you can expect. A number of resources are available online through the Alzheimer’s Association.
• Connect with others. Caring for a loved one can be isolating and cause caregivers to feel alienated from the outside world. Connecting with others, whether in-person or online, can help combat isolation and improve overall mental health. Support groups can also provide a safe place for caregivers to talk about their struggles with others who understand.
• Practice selfcare. As a caregiver, it is natural to put your loved one first. However, this should not come at the expense of your own health. Make time to care for yourself with regular exercise and doctors’ visits, as well as activities that bring you joy and relieve stress. Ask yourself, what brings me joy and how can I incorporate that into my life?

“Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is a long journey and it comes in different forms and stages,” said Beverly Robinson, CDP, Community Liaison for Visiting Angels and moderator of the support group at The Watermark at Vistawilla. “It’s something that no one is ever prepared for, but connecting with others who have walked this road before is so helpful to people on this journey.”

Beginning in November, The Watermark at Vistawilla will also host a six-week course titled “Powerful Tools for Caregivers.” Each week will cover a different topic and will focus on managing the demands of everyday life and making time for selfcare. If you’re interested in attending this course, contact Lisa Celona at (321) 422-2897 for more information.

When caring for a loved one becomes too much, Watermark also offers memory care. Watermark’s Thrive Memory Care program is based on over 30 years of experience delivering outstanding care and innovative programming in an encouraging, “home-like” environment. The program challenges traditional assumptions about what is possible and focuses on what residents can do, never what they cannot. For more information, visit vistawilla.watermarkcommunities.com.