The Importance of Asking Questions
Dear Caregivers,
Sometimes it’s hard to ask a question. Perhaps we’re concerned about appearing to be uninformed, or we don’t want to have to bother someone, or maybe we don’t know who to go to in order to ask the question. And sometimes there are questions we don’t even know that we need to ask!
Yet the quest for answers is part of every caregiver's experience. In the Zen Buddhist tradition, there is a concept of "beginner's mind." Having a “beginner’s mind” means being open to new ideas, an eagerness to learn, and not having any preconceptions about your topic. Even if you are several years into your caregiver journey, cultivating a questioning, beginner’s mind is a great approach to learning.
And that’s where NAN comes in: Your personal navigator is here to answer your questions or find the resources that can help you get answers to your questions that they themselves can’t answer. Furthermore, the NAN website has lots of content that can help you find the information you need. There is even a place on the website where you can submit a question, which our NAN experts will answer. We might consider using your question as part of the Ask NAN area of the website.
Here are some of the questions that have arisen among our caregiving community:
I’m a new caregiver.
Where do I start?
As a new caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, there are undoubtedly concerns about what this diagnosis means for your loved one. But most likely you also have questions about what this diagnosis means for you and your family. Here are some guidelines for how to begin your caregiving journey.
My Loved One keeps repeating the same questions over and over. How should I deal with that?
It is very common for individuals who have problems with their memory to become confused and engage in asking repetitive questions over and over to the point of being irritating to family and friends. Here are some strategies for coping with repetitive questions.
Should we try the medications for Alzheimer's disease?
With any new medication, it is critical to think about the potential benefits as well as the possible side effects. Since there is currently no drug that will cure the illness, the last thing we want to do is reduce the patient’s quality of life with side effects. Here’s what to keep in mind while considering taking medications for Alzheimer’s disease.
Is Alzheimer’s Hereditary?
A “family history” is not always associated with developing the disease — it is likely a combination of genetic, other medical, and lifestyle risk factors. Learn more about the hereditary aspects of Alzheimer’s.
What’s the best way to communicate with a person with dementia?
With Alzheimer’s disease, your loved one’s ability to understand, process, and communicate information will change. Here are some strategies and skills you can use to reduce communication challenges that could frustrate both of you.
Caregiving Essentials: Coping with stress
And don't forget: Check out the first of our monthly series of videos on "Caregiving Essentials," where you can learn how to manage, and perhaps even benefit from the stress in your life. Stay tuned for May's episode, which discusses the best ways to communicate with your loved one.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
"Sometimes asking for help is the most meaningful example of self-reliance.”
— Cory Booker
