Are you a family caregiver for someone living with dementia? Caring for a loved one with this condition involves numerous challenges, and often entails a shift in roles and responsibilities. 

You might find yourself managing household duties, finances, grocery shopping and meal preparations—tasks that may have once been shared or handled by your loved one.

For adult children stepping into a caregiver role, the reversal of roles can be uncomfortable as you transition into overseeing the care of a parent. It can feel particularly isolating if the person with dementia is someone you’re used to confiding in, and they are no longer emotionally or cognitively available for these exchanges due to the progression of the disease. 

As a caregiver, you become an anchor for their ever-changing world, orchestrating daily activities that keep them engaged and providing personal care, all while navigating the complexities of their emotional needs. 

Staying informed about the disease and knowing when to seek additional services like in-home care, adult day programs or a care community is important. Yet, it is also important to acknowledge the personal sense of loss and grief that comes with witnessing the gradual decline of someone you care for deeply.

Remember, you are not alone in this. Caring for a loved one with dementia is a selfless act of love, but it also comes with a unique set of challenges that can lead to caregiver stress and burnout. Recognizing the signs is the first step toward seeking the support you deserve. 

Here are 10 common indicators of caregiver burnout:

• Denial about the progression of the disease and its impact
• Anger toward the person you’re caring for, which can stem from feelings of helplessness
• Withdrawing from social activities and the friendships that once brought you joy
• Anxiety over future care decisions and the well-being of your loved one
• Depression that affects your ability to cope
• Exhaustion that goes beyond physical tiredness
• Sleeplessness driven by worriedness
• Irritability
• Lack of concentration that disrupts everyday tasks
• Health problems that manifest due to the prolonged stress of caregiving

Research indicates that the most resilient caregivers are those who seek community and support. Caregiver support groups offer many benefits, such as enhanced coping skills, empowerment, stress reduction and connections with those who truly understand what you’re going through.

LOCAL CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS

MESA COUNTY

Alzheimer’s Association’s in-person support group meets at 2232 N. 7th St., Suite B1. 4th Wednesday | 1-2 p.m. | 720-699-9307 

Dementia Support Group meets at Aspen Ridge, 622 28 1/4 Road. 2nd Tuesday | 1:30-3 p.m. | 970-640-7416

Veterans Caregiver Group (virtual) meets virtually through the Alzheimer’s Association. Call for details. 1st Tuesday | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | 970-387-6067 

MONTROSE-DELTA

Caregivers Support Group meets at Montrose United Methodist Church, 19 S. Park Ave. 2nd & 4th Mondays | 1-2 p.m. | 970-240-3714 | [email protected] 

Caregiver Support Group Montrose meets at US Bank, 1500 E. Oak Grove.
2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 1 & 3 p.m. | 970-275-2138 

Caregiver Support Group Delta meets at Delta County Memorial Hospital, meeting room A. 1st & 3rd Fridays | 1 p.m. | 970-275-2138

Dementia Caregivers Delta (ASEDD) meets at Crossroads Senior Living, 1380 Aspen Way. Thursdays | 1:30 p.m. | 970-510-0724 

Dementia Caregivers Cedaredge (ASEDD) meets at Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center, 195 W. Main St. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 1:30 p.m. | 970-510-0724

Dementia Caregivers Hotchkiss (ASEDD) meets at Hotchkiss Town Hall, 276 Main St. 2nd & 4th Wednesday | 1:30 p.m. | 970-510-0724