News
September 11, 2025
Asking Eric: I also have advice for a reader’s family coping with Alzheimer’s
"As a board-certified health and wellness coach who focuses specifically on the needs of seniors and people of all ages living with chronic illness and disability, I wanted to offer some additional options ... "
**Beyond the Diagnosis: Expert Offers Further Guidance for Families Facing Alzheimer's**
In response to a recent article addressing the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease, Eric, a board-certified health and wellness coach specializing in the needs of seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities, has stepped forward to offer additional advice and support. Recognizing the immense emotional and practical burdens families face, Eric aims to provide actionable strategies to improve the quality of life for both the patient and their caregivers.
“Alzheimer’s is a devastating diagnosis, not just for the individual affected, but for the entire family,” Eric explains. “It’s crucial to remember that you’re not alone, and there are resources and approaches that can make this journey a little easier.”
Building on the initial advice, Eric emphasizes the importance of creating a structured and predictable environment for the person with Alzheimer's. This can involve establishing consistent daily routines, minimizing clutter, and using visual cues to aid memory and orientation. Simple strategies like labeling drawers and cupboards with pictures or words can significantly reduce confusion and frustration.
Furthermore, Eric highlights the vital role of caregiver well-being. "Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint," he stresses. "It's essential to prioritize your own physical and mental health to avoid burnout. This means seeking respite care, joining support groups, and making time for activities you enjoy." He recommends exploring local resources such as senior centers, Alzheimer's Association chapters, and community organizations that offer caregiver support programs.
Eric also underscores the importance of open communication within the family. He suggests regular family meetings to discuss caregiving responsibilities, address concerns, and ensure everyone is on the same page. Dividing tasks and responsibilities fairly can prevent resentment and promote a more collaborative approach.
Finally, Eric encourages families to explore alternative therapies and lifestyle modifications that may benefit individuals with Alzheimer's. These can include gentle exercise, music therapy, art therapy, and pet therapy. While these approaches may not cure the disease, they can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance cognitive function.
By offering practical advice and a compassionate perspective, Eric hopes to empower families facing Alzheimer's to navigate the challenges with greater confidence and resilience. His expertise serves as a valuable reminder that even in the face of a difficult diagnosis, there is hope for improving the lives of both patients and their caregivers.
In response to a recent article addressing the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease, Eric, a board-certified health and wellness coach specializing in the needs of seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities, has stepped forward to offer additional advice and support. Recognizing the immense emotional and practical burdens families face, Eric aims to provide actionable strategies to improve the quality of life for both the patient and their caregivers.
“Alzheimer’s is a devastating diagnosis, not just for the individual affected, but for the entire family,” Eric explains. “It’s crucial to remember that you’re not alone, and there are resources and approaches that can make this journey a little easier.”
Building on the initial advice, Eric emphasizes the importance of creating a structured and predictable environment for the person with Alzheimer's. This can involve establishing consistent daily routines, minimizing clutter, and using visual cues to aid memory and orientation. Simple strategies like labeling drawers and cupboards with pictures or words can significantly reduce confusion and frustration.
Furthermore, Eric highlights the vital role of caregiver well-being. "Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint," he stresses. "It's essential to prioritize your own physical and mental health to avoid burnout. This means seeking respite care, joining support groups, and making time for activities you enjoy." He recommends exploring local resources such as senior centers, Alzheimer's Association chapters, and community organizations that offer caregiver support programs.
Eric also underscores the importance of open communication within the family. He suggests regular family meetings to discuss caregiving responsibilities, address concerns, and ensure everyone is on the same page. Dividing tasks and responsibilities fairly can prevent resentment and promote a more collaborative approach.
Finally, Eric encourages families to explore alternative therapies and lifestyle modifications that may benefit individuals with Alzheimer's. These can include gentle exercise, music therapy, art therapy, and pet therapy. While these approaches may not cure the disease, they can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance cognitive function.
By offering practical advice and a compassionate perspective, Eric hopes to empower families facing Alzheimer's to navigate the challenges with greater confidence and resilience. His expertise serves as a valuable reminder that even in the face of a difficult diagnosis, there is hope for improving the lives of both patients and their caregivers.
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