ABERDEEN, S.D.(Press Release) – During National Family Caregivers and National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in November, the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging dementia caregivers to make their own health an equal priority as they navigate the demands and stresses of caring for someone else.
“Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s takes longer, lasts longer, is more personal and extensive than most other diseases, and takes a heavy toll on the health of the caregivers themselves,” said Leslie Morrow, Executive Director of the South Dakota Chapter. “No caregiver should face this disease alone. The Alzheimer’s Association is here to help.”
Currently, there are more than 27,000 caregivers in South Dakota providing care to more than 16,500 people living with Alzheimer’s. For those living in and around Aberdeen, the Alzheimer’s Association offers an Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregiver Support Group on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at New Life Fellowship Church at 619 8th Avenue NW in Aberdeen. The next meeting will be held on November 14 and registration is not required.
Caring for those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia poses special challenges for family caregivers. As dementia symptoms worsen, caregivers can experience increased emotional stress, depression, anxiety, and new or worsened health problems. In addition, caregivers often experience depleted finances due to disruptions in employment and paying for health care or other services.
The Alzheimer’s Association provides local support and programs to families facing Alzheimer’s and other dementia, including a 24-7 Helpline staffed by master’s level clinicians and specialists who are available 365 days a year and can help families navigate a variety of disease-related issues. Call 800-272-3900.