When you get an illness like bronchitis or the flu, you know you will be feeling better and functioning normally within a week or so. Alzheimer’s disease is different. It will never go away, and it can change your life and lifestyle in many ways.
Effects of chronic illness
With Alzheimer's disease, disability and fatigue may become a large presence in your day. Physical and mental changes from the disease may occur and affect your mood and even your appearance. These changes may diminish your positive self-image. When you don't feel good about yourself, you may prefer isolation. You may withdraw from friends and social activities.
Alzheimer’s disease also can influence your ability to function and get around at home. Confusion, as well as impaired judgment and disorientation, may require you to modify your work activities and environment. A decreased ability to work and the increasing cost of care can lead to financial difficulties.
Specific tasks may take much longer to accomplish. You may need the help of your spouse, a relative, or a home health care provider. As your life changes, you may feel a loss of control and more anxiety from the uncertainty of what lies ahead.
Stress
Stress can build and influence how you feel about life. Prolonged stress can lead to frustration, anger, hopelessness and, at times, depression — all of which can worsen the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. The person with the illness is not the only one affected. Family members are also influenced by the persistent health changes of a loved one.
How can I make my life better?
The most important step you can take is to seek help as soon as you feel less able to cope. Taking action early will enable you to understand and deal with the many effects of a chronic illness. Learning to manage stress will help you to maintain a positive physical, emotional, and spiritual outlook on life. A mental health care provider can design a treatment plan to meet your specific needs. Strategies can be designed to help you regain a sense of control over your life and improve your quality of life-- something everyone deserves. At times, if depression is present, medications other than those treating the physical illness may be ordered to help lift your mood.
What types of help are available?
There are many types of help available for people with chronic illnesses. Among them are:
- Support groups — Support groups are a very useful sharing experience. They provide an environment where you can learn new ways of dealing with your illness. You may want to share approaches you have discovered with others. You will also gain strength in knowing that you are not facing hardships alone.
- Individual counseling — Sometimes people have problems that are better addressed in a one-on-one atmosphere. By participating in individual counseling, you may more effectively express sensitive or private feelings you have about your illness and its impact on your lifestyle and relationships.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 9/27/2006
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