When to seek outside help

You will likely find there are times when you need help in addition to what family members and friends can provide. Your local Area Agency on Aging, local Alzheimer's Association or your family doctor may direct you to community resources that can support your caregiving and provide respite from your responsibilities. These services include:

• Adult care services that provide daytime programs or meals
• In-home health or care services
• In-home companion services
• Meal delivery programs

Asking for and arranging help with your caregiving responsibilities — like all aspects of dementia caregiving — will change over time and require you to adapt. Throughout the course of the disease, you can best support yourself and the person in your care if you continue to seek the help you need.