November is National Family Caregivers' and Alzheimer's Awareness Month

For the past few years I've been writing articles about caregivers and Alzheimer's disease, however, I'm a little late. Even though November is almost over, one can always assist and honor family caregivers in December since the holidays can increase stress levels.

Family caregivers are often stressed, depressed and carry a lot of responsibility on their shoulders. Caregiving is a difficult job and some juggle career, family, and their duties. Many work for free without receiving thanks for the assistance they give. Due to the amount of stresses involved, family caregivers often die before their care recipients.

It is hard to put into words what family caregivers do for their loved ones and it has been said that only a caregiver understands another. I can't speak for those who take care of someone with cancer, heart, stroke or other health problems. I cared for my late father who had vascular dementia/Alzheimer's disease and will segue into Alzheimer's Awareness Month.

First described in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, Alzheimer's is a progressive and fatal disease. Alzheimer's robs people of their memories, dignity, and eventually their lives. There are treatments which temporarily slow symptoms but only for a short period of time. Unfortunately there is no cure. Early detection is important so if someone is exhibiting signs of memory loss take him or her to the doctor as soon as possible.

For more information about Alzheimer's including the ten warning signs, call the Association's helpline at 800-272-3900 or go to www.Alz.org/californiasouthland

For more information and assistance caring for a brain-impaired loved one contact the Los Angeles Caregivers Resource Center at 800-540-4442 or go to lacrc.usc.edu
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Eden Rosen is an author, speaker, and advocate. She is a former family caregiver to a parent with Alzheimer's disease. She is also the author of three books pertaining to the trials and tribulations of being a family caregiver to someone with a cognitive impairment.