The local dementia caregivers support group met Feb. 4 at the Holiday Inn for the monthly get-together. It was a good group of supporters, and we had a new guest in attendance. This means so much to our morale, because we have been trying to get the news out to others who are going through this tough situation as many of us have gone through.
Sure, most people feel they can handle this themselves. Yes, maybe you are able; but its no fun going through this stressful time in our life as it does take its toll on you. And, if you have no family in the area, that makes it all the more difficult.
We know this is a very tough road to go through, as the ones we love are so precious throughout our whole lives. Once we have lost them, it makes us feel yes, we did all we can to make their last days as full of life and love that we were able to give them.
One of the latest facts that have come out states that, in the next few years there will be at least 17 million baby boomers and, of that group, 60 to 70 percent of them will have the disease. This is hard to believe, but it is a fact.
Some of the techniques they have stated to help all of us are: Plan tasks; make to-do lists; develop hobbies; stay involved in our community; engage in physical activity; exercise; walking; swimming; volunteer when asked; limit alcohol use — yes, a moderate amount is good every once in a while, but overdoing can cause memory loss or permanent brain damage; and don’t be afraid to ask your neighbors and friends to help you out, because they are so important to our well being.
Our next meeting will be at 11:30 a.m. March 4 at the Holiday Inn. Last but not least, we have to thank them for being so accommodating to our group.
