Coaching Alzheimer’s Caregivers

22.9.2019

Coaching Alzheimer’s Caregivers

Author: Shiri Ben-Arzi, PMC

People with Alzheimer’s disease might need Medical Coaching at the very early stages but their caregivers need it THROUGHOUT the disease.
As coaches, we need to be aware that caregivers can experience extremely high levels of stress that result in what is called ‘Caregiver Stress Syndrome’ or ‘Compassion Fatigue’. Both are an extreme version of burnout due to chronic stress.

When coaching an Alzheimer’s caregiver make sure to address the following issues:

 1.
Help your client create a self-care program that addresses the physical, emotional and social aspects of their lives. The program needs to be structured as well as flexible so that the client can update and change it according to the changing challenges and needs. You might need to clear some limiting beliefs to help the client prioritize their own self-care.

2.
Challenge your client to review all the community resources are that available, these can include adult day programs, in-home assistance, visiting nurses, meal delivery, support groups, online forums, the local Alzheimer’s association etc.

3.
Inspire your client to become an educated caregiver. As the disease progresses, new caregiving skills may be necessary. It’s going to be helpful to talk to other caregivers about their coping strategies, resources, and tips.

4.
Encourage your client to make legal and financial plans. Having future plans in place provides comfort and security to the entire family. It’s best to address this close to the diagnosis so that the person with the disease can participate.

5.
Use relaxation techniques such as visualization, meditation, breathing exercises, and muscle relaxation techniques. Start with what you know and then make sure to expand your coaching toolbox.

 

If you found this useful share it with someone else that can benefit from it.

 

Shiri Ben-Arzi

Master Medical Coach

CEO of MCI – the Medical Coaching Institute