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Coping with grief and loss as an Alzheimer's caregiver

Ironically, the extended Alzheimer's journey gives families the gift of preparing for, and finding meaning in their loved one's end of life. When death is slow and gradual, many caregivers are able to prepare for its intangible aspects, and to support their loved ones through the unknown. Even with years of grief, others find themselves unprepared and surprised when death is imminent.

Talking with family and friends, consulting hospice services, bereavement experts, and spiritual advisors can help you work through these feelings and focus on your loved one. Palliative care specialists and trained volunteers assist not only on the dying person, but also caregivers and family members.

The end-of-life period, when body systems are shutting down and death is eminent generally lasts from a matter of days to a couple of weeks. Some Alzheimer's patients die gently and tranquilly, while others seem to fight the inevitable. Reassuring your loved one it is okay to die can help both of you through this process. Decisions about hydration, breathing support, and other interventions should be consistent with your loved one's wishes and advanced directives.