I recall feeling helpless and confused at times, and wondered if I was doing the right thing. It’s like an avalanche – it starts as a snowball and once it begins going downhill, it just gets bigger and bigger and you realize that you can’t stop it.
It used to be that you carried it around with you like some deep, dark family secret. It’s so hard to see that person slipping. You don’t want to accept it, but then they start to forget things. They have moments where things aren’t familiar to them, and then all of the sudden they don’t recognize you.
I know all too well what millions of other families across the country are going through. About 10 years ago, my father and I were the primary caregivers for my mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.
I was delighted to hear the news about the National Alzheimer’s Plan and the ambitious goal of preventing and effectively treating Alzheimer’s disease by 2025. I also want to commend the Obama Administration for dedicating additional financial resources in the fight against the Alzheimer’s epidemic. However, the critical need to accelerate the Alzheimer’s movement and create awareness for Alzheimer’s disease, and the programs and services available to support those affected, is ever-present and growing.
This need seems to resonate throughout the African-American community, as we are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than other populations. Compared to the general public, African-Americans have a greater risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and other cardiovascular complications, which could lead to a higher risk of stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.
It is common, and culturally acceptable, in the African-American community to believe it’s the family’s responsibility to take care of their loved ones needs and not to impose on individuals outside the family. A word to the family members and loved ones who are compassionately providing round-the-clock care to people with dementia – you are not alone. You have one of the hardest jobs in the world, but you do not have to bare this burden on your own.
Reach out to other people to help alleviate the stress, because you have got to have help. You cannot and should not do it by yourself. Find a support group, get respite assistance and seek out education programs to help you plan for the future. There are resources available to assist with the difficult decisions and uncertainties people with Alzheimer’s and their families face. Even if you wake up in the middle of the night feeling helpless, you can call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline. Sometimes just having someone to talk to can make all of the difference in the world.
While a cure may not be around the corner, the momentum of getting to the corner is growing. Alzheimer’s disease can’t wait. Know the signs of Alzheimer’s and reach out for assistance. Not only is it OK to ask for help, it’s the right thing to do (for you and you’re loved one).
To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease or receive support, visit alz.org/stl or call 800-272-3900.
St. Louis American columnist and broadcaster Mike Claiborne is a board member of the Alzheimer’s Association St. Louis Chapter.
