"If there's one thing worse than Alzheimer's, it's ignorance of the disease." -- Marty Schreiber
IT’S A CHALLENGE, BUT IT’S WORTH IT
How to Help Yourself Live Your Best Life Possible
My friend Abraham Lincoln once said, “We’re just about as happy as we make our minds up to be.” That’s quite a statement coming from a man like Lincoln, who experienced challenge after challenge. This manner of thinking—of making your mind up to be happy—may not strike a chord with everyone. But as an Alzheimer's caregiver, it resonates deeply.
As caregivers, we try to figure out how to handle our challenges by making the best choices possible for our loved one and ourselves. It’s incredibly difficult, because sometimes we’re so struck with worry. But like Lincoln said, we have to make our minds up to control that worry. It’s not easy. In fact, it’s a daily job—a daily decision we have to make.
The care of our loved one is, in itself, a challenge. The behaviors of the person with Alzheimer’s are the direct result of the disease and cannot be cured, delayed, or prevented. These symptoms are non-compromising. A given. Out of our control.
But let’s talk about what we can control—that is, our own thoughts and actions. We can work to control our thinking—what we think, when we think it. Irrational irritability, frustration, and anger seriously undermine our ability to be the best caregiver possible. It’s not only wasted energy, it negatively impacts our health.
When we give in to negative thoughts, we aren’t able to hear the birds sing or see the flowers bloom. In this new year, let's do right by Honest Abe and focus on making our minds up to be happy. To choose a positive thought, and to notice moments of joy when they come our way along our caregiving journey.
For questions or more information about Alzheimer’s and services or programs, visit alz.org or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.
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Marty is the primary caregiver for his wife Elaine, for whom his book is named. He compassionately promotes the value of learning about Alzheimer's and caregiving via personal appearances and serving as a media source. You'll enjoy his honesty and even his humor.
