When loved ones become strangers

It starts with short term memory loss and subtle changes of personality, and progresses inexorably until eventually the sufferer becomes totally confused and unable to function physically or mentally.

This is the distressing reality of Alzheimer’s, an incurable disease that affects an estimated 25 000 South Africans over the age of 65, across all racial, social and economic sectors.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s ... making sure they don’t forget a pot left on the stove, leave the door unlocked, or wander out onto the street and get lost ... is a 24-hour a day job, and many families simply can’t cope.

For them, the decision to place the Alzheimer’s patient in a home may be the best option; TAFTA is currently in the process of building a specialised unit to provide full time residential care to Alzheimer's patients.

Other families can manage with a part-time nurse or care-giver to help with bathing and personal care, or periods of respite care to enable them to get away for a few days. Some just need advice and support to understand and come to terms with the disease.

The important thing is not to feel guilty or ashamed to admit you need help. Joining the TAFTA Alzheimer's Support Group gives you the opportunity to meet others in the same situation, to discuss problems and to draw strength from the knowledge that you are not alone.

To join this group, please contact our Alzheimer's Group Social Worker on tel. (031) 332-3721.