Mental Health and Wellbeing When Caring for Someone With Alzheimer’s

Izabela Klaczkiewicz, General Manager at Loveday Abbey Road, was featured in the Independent, sharing her advice on how to manage mental wellbeing when caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s.

With nearly 20 years experience in the care industry,  Izabela understands the challenges that carers face as well as those living with the condition. Below, she gives an insight into the care complexities and shares her expert advice with tips on how to manage mental wellbeing.  

The Impact of Alzheimer’s on Loved Ones by Izabela Klaczkiewicz:

Watching a cherished friend or family member slowly lose their sense of self, confidence, purpose and independence is an emotionally devastating experience. The personality and behavioural changes that accompany Alzheimer’s often add layers of complexity and frustration, leaving those caring for them feeling helpless and overwhelmed.

The physical demands of caring, particularly as the disease progresses, are equally significant. As the person living with Alzheimer’s requires more intensive care, the carer’s health can suffer and this is something I see on a regular basis. Physical exhaustion becomes a common side effect, which can lead to serious health issues long-term.

There are also financial implications when delivering care with medical costs, home modifications and potential loss of income quickly adding up, further adding to the stress.

Additionally, the responsibilities of caring can lead to social withdrawal and isolation as there is limited time for personal relationships and activities. This isolation can create feelings of loneliness and disconnection, compounding the emotional burden.

The following advice is a guide I share with loved ones caring for an individual living with dementia to help manage their mental wellbeing.

Tips for Managing Mental Wellbeing:

Seek Support: The most important point I always stress, is that you are never, ever alone. There are so many people going through the same experiences and it’s important to talk, connect with others and make time for yourself.

Connecting with people who are going through similar experiences can provide invaluable emotional support and practical advice. Support groups, whether in-person or online, offer a safe space to share feelings, receive advice and learn coping strategies. Additionally, therapy can be a valuable tool in helping carers process their emotions, develop coping mechanisms and address mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression.

Prioritise physical health: Carers must remember that their wellbeing is a priority. Regular physical activity, even taking a daily walk in the outdoors, can reduce stress, improve mood and boost energy levels. Nutrition is also really important- a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins can help sustain energy and overall wellbeing. It’s also really important to maintain health to boost the immune system as we enter winter.

Establish routines and boundaries: Creating a consistent daily routine provides structure and predictability, reducing stress for both the carer and the person living with dementia. Setting realistic boundaries is equally important—recognise your limits, communicate them clearly and don’t be afraid to prioritise your own needs to prevent burnout.

Take time out: Don’t hesitate to enlist help from family members, friends or professional respite care services. Taking regular breaks to engage in activities you enjoy is crucial for maintaining mental health and preventing burnout. This time away allows you to recharge, ensuring you have the energy and mental clarity needed to provide the best possible care. One of the things we do at Loveday Abbey Road for our team is laughing yoga – a wonderful activity that brings joy, releases stress and enables all of the carers to connect with eachother. Laughter is wonderful medicine for all.

Educate yourself: Understanding Alzheimer’s and its progression can help set realistic expectations and improve your ability to manage challenging behaviors. Continuous learning about effective strategies and communication techniques can significantly reduce stress and enhance your experience.