Alzheimer's disease: Counselling and support

Alzheimer’s disease support is very important for those suffering from the condition. Alzheimer's disease, as with many chronic illnesses, will affect you both physically and mentally. It is important to realise that you are not alone and that if you feel you need help coping, you should consider seeking counselling.

The decision to seek counselling is an important step. Too often, people don't get help because they feel ashamed, guilty, or embarrassed. By deciding to get help, you make the choice to feel better and improve your life. Counselling services should be chosen with care so that you find something that best meets your needs. While working with a trained mental health professional, you can develop the right treatment plan.

Where do I start?

Ask your doctor to refer you to a professional with expertise in mental health. This person will assess your situation to determine if there is cause for concern, diagnose the problem, and determine the best treatment. Specialists trained in mental health care include family therapists, social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, and other professionals.

During the initial interview, you will be asked to describe why you want counselling, any symptoms you have (emotional, mental, and physical), and your medical history. You may be given a question-and-answer survey.

What happens after the assessment?

Once you complete the assessment, a treatment plan will be devised. At this time, you and your counsellor can discuss:

• The best type of counselling.
• The best place for counselling (counsellor's office, outpatient clinic, hospital, residential treatment centre).
• Who will be included in your treatment (you alone, family members, others with similar problems).
• How often you should go to counselling.
• How long counselling may last.
• Any medications that may be needed.

What are the different types of counselling?

The following list briefly describes common types of counselling. These can be used together or alone, depending on the treatment plan.

Crisis intervention counselling. In cases of emergency (such as initial despair over diagnosis), the counsellor will help you get through the crisis and refer you for further counselling or medical care, if needed. These services are provided by charities and helplines.

Individual counselling. You meet one-on-one with the counsellor. Counselling often takes place in the privacy of the counsellor's office. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or grief in dealing with your Alzheimer's, this may be appropriate.

Family therapy. A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can affect the entire family. If you are the primary provider in the home, there can be financial strain. If you are a homemaker, there may need to be adjustments in the distribution of housework and other tasks. These everyday strains combined with the emotional effects of dealing with a long-term illness have an enormous effect on the family as a whole. Family therapy can help family members resolve issues collectively. It can also help them adopt ways to help other family members cope better. Family members can learn how certain actions and ways of communicating can worsen problems. With help, new and improved ways of communicating can be explored and practised.

Self-help and support groups. These include a network of people with similar problems. These groups usually meet regularly without a therapist or counsellor. There are support groups for people with Alzheimer's disease and also for their families and carers.