Alzheimer's: Dealing with family conflict

 

Alzheimer's disease can cause stress for families. Work through family conflicts together so that you can focus on what's important. By Mayo Clinic Staff When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, the effects on the family can be overwhelming. The reality that someone you care for has Alzheimer's can trigger a range of emotions — including anger, fear, frustration and sadness. Conflicts are common as family members struggle to deal with the changes. To minimize conflict, address the issues together. Share responsibility When figuring out how you're loved one will be cared for, consider each family member's preferences, resources and abilities. Some might provide hands-on care, either in their own homes or in your loved one's home. Others might be more comfortable with respite care, household chores or errands. You and your family might also choose someone to handle financial or legal issues. Meet regularly To stay on top of your loved one's care, plan regular family meetings. Include everyone who's part of the caregiving team, including family friends and other close contacts. You might also share email updates with the entire family, or send updates through social media resources. During family meetings, discuss each person's caregiving responsibilities and challenges — and make changes as needed. Be open to compromise and possibilities you hadn't considered on your own. If your family meetings tend to turn into arguments, consider asking a counselor, social worker, mediator or other professional to moderate. Next Sept. 05, 2015 References See more In-depth Página 2 Be honest To help diffuse any tension, talk about your feelings in an open, constructive manner. If you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, say so — and then work together to brainstorm more effective ways to share the burden of your loved one's care. Again, work with a professional if needed. Be careful to express your feelings without blaming or shaming anyone else. Use "I" statements, such as "I'm having trouble juggling my own schedule with all of dad's appointments." Keep an open mind as you listen to other family members share their thoughts and feelings. Don't criticize There are many "right" ways to provide care. Respect each caregiver's abilities, style and values. Be especially supportive of family members responsible for daily, hands-on care. Consider counseling If you're concerned that the stress of Alzheimer's will tear your family apart, seek help. You might join a support group for Alzheimer's caregivers, seek family counseling or ask for advice from your care team. Remember, working through conflicts together can help you move on to more important things — caring for your loved one and enjoying your time together as much as possible. Sep. 05, 2015 References See more In-depth http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047365/

Alzheimer's prevention: Does it exist?

 

Are there any proven Alzheimer's prevention strategies? Answers from Glenn Smith, Ph.D. According to a statement from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a number of factors could play a role in whether you develop Alzheimer's disease. However, more research is needed before modification of any of these factors can be proved to prevent Alzheimer's disease. The NIH report was developed by an independent panel of health professionals and public representatives who reviewed the most current research on Alzheimer's prevention. The panel found that studies to date have varied too much in size, scope, criteria and definitions to compare results and draw reliable conclusions. Although more research is needed to definitively prove which Alzheimer's prevention strategies are effective, some possible strategies that promote good overall health include: Avoiding smoking Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits and lean protein, particularly protein sources containing omega-3 fatty acids Being physically and socially active Taking care of your mental health Using thinking (cognitive) skills, such as memory skills References See more Expert Answers   http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/alzheimers-prevention/faq-20058140

Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms

 

Depression symptoms often improve with exercise. Here are some realistic tips to help you get started and stay motivated By Mayo Clinic Staff When you have anxiety or depression, exercise often seems like the last thing you want to do. But once you get motivated, exercise can make a big difference. Exercise helps prevent and improve a number of health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis. Research on anxiety, depression and exercise shows that the psychological and physical benefits of exercise can also help reduce anxiety and improve mood. The links between anxiety, depression and exercise aren't entirely clear — but working out and other forms of physical activity can definitely ease symptoms of anxiety or depression and make you feel better. Exercise may also help keep anxiety and depression from coming back once you're feeling better. How does exercise help depression and anxiety? Regular exercise probably helps ease depression in a number of ways, which may include: Releasing feel-good brain chemicals that may ease depression (neurotransmitters, endorphins and endocannabinoids) Reducing immune system chemicals that can worsen depression Increasing body temperature, which may have calming effects Regular exercise has many psychological and emotional benefits, too. It can help you: Gain confidence. Meeting exercise goals or challenges, even small ones, can boost your self-confidence. Getting in shape can also make you feel better about your appearance. Take your mind off worries. Exercise is a distraction that can get you away from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed anxiety and depression. Get more social interaction. Exercise and physical activity may give you the chance to meet or socialize with others. Just exchanging a friendly smile or greeting as you walk around your neighborhood can help your mood. Cope in a healthy way. Doing something positive to manage anxiety or depression is a healthy coping strategy. Trying to feel better by drinking alcohol, dwelling on how badly you feel, or hoping anxiety or depression will go away on its own can lead to worsening symptoms. Is a structured exercise program the only option? Some research shows that physical activity such as regular walking — not just formal exercise programs — may help improve mood. Physical activity and exercise are not the same thing, but both are beneficial to your health. Physical activity is any activity that contracts muscles and expends energy and can include work or household or leisure activities. Exercise is a planned, structured and repetitive body movement done to improve or maintain physical fitness. The word "exercise" may make you think of running laps around the gym. But exercise includes a wide range of activities that boost your activity level to help you feel better. Certainly running, lifting weights, playing basketball and other fitness activities that get your heart pumping can help. But so can physical activity such as gardening, washing your car, walking around the block or engaging in other less intense activities. Any physical activity that gets you off the couch and moving can help improve your mood. You don't have to do all your exercise or other physical activity at once. Broaden how you think of exercise and find ways to add small amounts of physical activity throughout your day. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park a little farther away from work to fit in a short walk. Or, if you live close to your job, consider biking to work. Next   http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495