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Alzheimer's: Dealing with family conflict
Alzheimer's disease creates major stress in families. Work through family conflicts together so that you can move on to more important things.
By Mayo Clinic staffWhen a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, the effects on the family can be overwhelming. The reality that someone you love has such a devastating illness can trigger a range of emotions — including fear, sadness, confusion and anger. Conflicts are common as family members struggle to deal with the situation. To minimize these conflicts, address the issues together.
Share responsibility
Consider each family member's preferences, resources and abilities. Some family members may provide hands-on care — either in their own homes or in your loved one's home. Others may be more comfortable with respite care, household chores or errands. Others may be better suited for handling financial or legal issues.
Meet regularly
Plan regular face-to-face family meetings. Include everyone who's part of the caregiving team, including family friends and other close contacts. Discuss each person's caregiving responsibilities and challenges — and make changes as needed. If time, distance or other logistical problems are issues for certain family members, consider conference calls or video conferencing. You can also share email updates with the entire family or start a family blog.
If your family meetings tend to turn into arguments, consider asking a counselor, social worker or other professional to moderate.
Next page(1 of 2)
- Changes in relationships. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_changes_in_relationships.asp. Accessed Oct. 26, 2009.
- Dang S, et al. The dementia caregiver - A primary care approach. Southern Medical Journal. 2008;101:1246.
- Holding a family meeting. Family Caregiver Alliance. http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=475. Accessed Oct. 26, 2009.
- The stresses of caregiving. Family Caregiver Alliance. http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=891. Accessed Oct. 26, 2009.
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