Let's Get Personal
Dear Caregivers,
You may have heard talk during the COVID pandemic about the risks we face from social isolation. As a caregiver of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s, you no doubt have had multiple hurdles in trying to maintain your personal life and interacting with your social community.
Socializing isn’t just fun: Scientific study after study has shown that simply being with other people and developing deep personal relationships has huge benefits in a person’s mental and physical health. People who make the effort to spend time with others show evidence of reduced depression, lower anxiety, enhanced cognitive function, boosted immune symptoms, and lower risks of chronic diseases. These benefits occur in people suffering from Alzheimer’s as well.
As challenging as it may be at times, our connection to others is vitally important, and I hope you can find some time to “get personal.”
Keeping Your Personal Relationships Strong While Caregiving:
The stresses of caregiving can cause significant strains on a marriage or any other relationship. Here’s how to keep stress at bay and keep your personal relationships healthy.
The Benefits of Socializing:
People who socially connect with others have improved brain function, such as better memory, and are less likely to develop dementia than those who are more socially isolated. Here are some tips for increasing social engagement.
Setting Boundaries as a Caregiver:
As a caregiver, it is essential that you remain committed to your personal boundaries, making sure that you give yourself time and space to address your personal needs for rest, relaxation, and fulfillment. This foundation for positive self-care is vital in improving your well-being. Here’s how to do it.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget.”
— G. Randolf
