by Melody Hearndon

Created on: March 08, 2010

In her youth she was vibrant and confident with regards to her life and how it would turn out. However, her reality was unlike anything she could have ever imagined, yet she has come through it all with her dignity still in tact. No longer as vibrant and naïve, she has since become sweet on good days and cynical on bad days. Somewhere in between I fill in the pieces and like leaves that have drifted and get picked up by the wind our lives have come full circle.

Whoever coined the phrase that Alzheimer’s is “The Long Goodbye”, completely understands the disease and its progression. Little by little the disease continues to mask itself in the mind and body of a frail and tiny woman that once caused me to tremble in fear as I was going to be punished and deservedly so.

Perspective

In order to understand the role of caregiver, you must first put it all into perspective. It's during this time that you will build character you never realized you had. Gather as much information as you can about the disease itself and what to be aware of as the caregiver. Maintain an open line of communication with other family members as well so that any information you're passing on is accurate.

As their health-care advocate, keep up with current trends or new treatments that may be available so that your loved one has only the best there is to offer. There are certain medications that can make a significant difference in the life of an Alzheimer's patient as well as the caregiver.

Role Reversal

Perhaps it's your parent afflicted with this horrible disease? Perhaps you've assumed the role of caregiver albeit choice or circumstance? More and more baby boomers are taking on the role of child-care for their elderly parents whom no longer have the ability to care for themselves.

There will come a time when as the child, your role will reverse and you will become the parent caring for your aging parent. Many cultures assume this as the norm whereas in America, it's a new phenomenon. Assisted living facilities are a wonderful alternative, however not always financially affordable.

Elderly Proof

More and more baby boomers have assumed the role that puts mom or dad directly in their home. That is a decision that requires as much thought as possible. Perhaps there are underlying issues between parent and child that will evoke friction and tension in an already volatile situation? That can no longer be an issue when assuming care. This is about caring for your loved

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