Alzheimer's Whisperer - 5 Keys

The Alzheimer's Whisperer has the unique ability to communicate with, care for, and comfort a person with Alzheimer's while preserving her own well-being.

First there was The Horse Whisperer, then The Dog Whisperer, and The Ghost Whisperer. I wonder when will we see The Cat Whisperer? While waiting, I met a unique individual in the world of dementia-The Alzheimer's Whisperer. S/He provides guilt-free quality care without losing him/herself.

The Alzheimer's Whisperer demonstrates five keys to caregiving:

1. Know How

She learns as much as she can about Alzheimer's from organizations like the Alzheimer's Association, the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, Caring.com's Steps & Stages, and the National Family Caregivers Association. She draws wisdom from others through support groups, educational offerings, and online chats. If she is employed and can't make time for the above, she read books and informational materials in order to know what to expect.

2. Compassion

With knowledge, he is better able to accept the reality his loved one's condition. He exhibits greater compassion while coping with disruptive behaviors and anticipating needs.

5 KEYS to becoming The Alzheimer's Whisperer

1. KNOW HOW

2. COMPASSION

3. COMMITTED

4. EMPATHY

5. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

The Alzheimer's Whisperer recognizes that caregiving is a temporary, yet life-changing journey taken by very special people.

3. Committed

She is committed to providing quality care, despite her intermittent tears and joys. She takes advantage of the continuum of care--adult day care, in-home care, respite care, assisted living or skilled nursing care--and draws on others to help make her job easier. In the tradition of the great animal whisperers, she weighs the value of a pet to bring joy to her loved one.

4. Empathy

Each day, and sometimes every hour, he visualizes how he would want to be cared for if the roles were reversed. This enables him to enter fully into the world of his loved one while not losing himself.

5. Unconditional Love

Developing the first four keys, she experiences an open heart that elevates her own life purpose and meaning in ways she could never anticipate. Despite the challenges, she feels strength.

What better gift can a caregiver share with one with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia than practicing the five keys of The Alzheimer's Whisperer?