Grief

Because of Alzheimer's disease, you may feel that you have lost a companion, friend or parent, and grieve for the way things used to be.  Many caregivers find themselves shifting between hope and despair, thinking the person may get better, then knowing otherwise.  Also, because dementia is progressive, just when you think you have adjusted, the person may change again.  It can be devastating when the person no longer recognises you.

Try to focus on what makes life as pleasant as possible for you both, and look for the parts of the person's personality that still remain.

It is important that you find someone to talk to.  Sharing your feelings with family, friends and other caregivers is one way of coping with the grief.  Many caregivers have found that joining support groups is a good way to get help and encouragement to keep going.