Caregiver Support
The demands of caregivers for someone living with dementia or Alzheimer’s can limit a person’s ability to take care of themselves. Family caregivers for these patients are at greater risk for anxiety, depression, and poorer quality of life than caregivers of people with other conditions. Caregivers must remember that self-care is not selfish! A few things a caregiver can do for themselves:
- Schedule and have consistent breaks from caregiving responsibilities.
- Let your doctor know you are a caregiver.
- When someone offers help, let them help.
- Consider joining a caregiver support group. Find a support group in Alabama.
- Make time to be social and do some of the things you used to do before being a caregiver.
- Make sure you are getting enough sleep.
- Manage stress and burnout:
Alabama Cares helps family caregivers with support services to assist them with information, assistance, respite services, education, and supplemental services. Visit the Alabama Department of Senior Services to learn more.
Visit our Tips page for more information on working safely and compassionately with dementia patients.
Online Resources for Caregivers
- Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care: Help for Family Caregivers
- Alzheimer's Foundation of America National Screening Program
- Best Programs for Caregiving
- Caregiver Burnout Symptoms and How to Avoid Them
- Caregiver Stress (Alzheimer's Association)
- Caregiver Teleconnection
- Caregiving for a Person with Alzheimer's Disease or a Related Dementia (CDC)
- Dementia Caregiving Resources
- Dementia Resource Guide
- Getting Help with Alzheimer's Caregiving (NIH)
- Home Modifications for Loved Ones with Alzheimer's
- How Caregivers Can Navigate a Loved One’s Dementia Diagnosis
For support groups, visit the Alzheimer's Association or call the Alzheimer’s Alabama Chapter's Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.
Page last updated: December 17, 2025
