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The Alzheimer's society is teaching caregivers to look after themselves

Taking care of a spouse or relative with dementia can be tough
alzheimer
The support group has shown itself valuable for the participants. (Stock photo)

Battling a degenerative condition can be difficult - not only for those who get it, but also for those in the surroundings.

At the Alzheimer's Society in St. Catharines, a 16-week course aiming to strengthen caregivers in their work of looking after themselves, have proven to be a valuable tool.

"Everyone knows the things you are 'supposed' to do to take care of yourself in a situation like this. Eating right, exercising are things everybody tells you, but no one focuses on how you go through a transformation like this", course leader Denise Verrault says.

As the director for Programs and Services at the Alzheimer's society, she has seen many pass through the program, that was made possible through a grant, and that has received 'tremendous' support in the community of caregivers, she says.

Spouses, relatives, and friends taking care of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's or dementia learn techniques to care, based on teachings from Burlington-based life coach and author Viola Fodor.

"We talk about the 'how', focusing on the self and ensuring we are getting what we need and that we are guided by ourselves in the big picture", Verrault continues.

She says the response has been strong, especially among a certain demographic.

"We had five men in the group recently. Normally men don't come out to these kinds of courses, but we have had really great success with them".

And for herself, the mission of teaching caregivers how to look after themselves in a tough situation is a highly personal mission for Verrault, who cared for a close one who suffered several strokes.

"As a full-time caregiver, I experienced the grief and guilt that can come with it. I took the group myself and realized it had a lot of residual effects. The grief can be strong, and I think people taking the course really do feel that when we are in session."

The next opportunity to join a class from week 1, which is recommended, begins August 26.

More information found here.


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Ludvig Drevfjall

About the Author: Ludvig Drevfjall

Ludvig Drevfjall has been the editor of ThoroldToday since January 2020. He has worked as a journalist in Sweden, British Columbia and Ontario
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