With the support of the Barcelona Provincial Council, we have published a new guide "Psychological and behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's: understanding them and learning to manage them", an essential resource to support families of people with Alzheimer's in understanding and managing these symptoms. The guide offers a detailed explanation of the main psychological and behavioral manifestations of the disease, as well as practical strategies for dealing with them effectively.
Alzheimer's is the leading cause of dementia affecting millions of people worldwide. Specifically, in Spain there are more than 900,000 people affected, an estimated 120,000 in Catalonia.The impact of an Alzheimer's diagnosis not only affects the person diagnosed, but also encompasses the whole family environment, which assumes care tasks in 80% of cases. According to studies we have developed, the primary caregiver dedicates an average of 15 hours a day, seven days a week, a responsibility that often involves facing doubts, insecurities and fears.
"There are common symptoms of Alzheimer's disease that aren't widely known and can take family caregivers by surprise, often struggling to cope. This guide will help you identify them and acquire tools and strategies to manage them in the best possible way. The guide also offers a framework for analyzing which strategies work best, as well as practical, everyday recommendations that ensure the well-being of both the person with Alzheimer's and their family caregivers." comment Sandra Poudevida, psychologist and therapist at the Foundation.
"Putting caregivers at the center is indisputable when we realize the emotional, physical, and economic impact this task entails. It is our responsibility to create a context that supports caregivers comprehensively, and within this framework, support for understanding a complex and disconcerting disease such as Alzheimer's plays a fundamental role. Caregiving is and will continue to be one of the greatest challenges of our present and future society—a community challenge. Therefore, the Barcelona Provincial Council maintains a firm commitment to advancing the strengthening of local care services, especially in the home and community settings, as well as to promoting recognition and support for caregivers." ensures Alba Barnusell, President of the Department of Social Sustainability, Life Cycle and Community of the Barcelona Provincial Council.
A key resource for caregivers and family members
This guide has been prepared from the scientific knowledge and experience of the caregiver support programmes we provide, as well as the social and scientific research studies on Alzheimer's that we have conducted.
The document is structured in different sections that explain the most common symptoms, both psychological (apathy, anxiety, delusional ideas, hallucinations, etc.) as behavioral (agitation, irritability, repetitive behaviors, wandering, disinhibition, etc.). For each symptom, a detailed description, possible causes and practical recommendations to manage them effectively.
It also offers specific strategies to facilitate the relationship, reducing factors that can aggravate symptoms and promoting a more stable and secure environment. One of the most important aspects is the importance of flexibility and analyzing the context in which symptoms appear, as this allows us to adapt the strategies that work best at any given time.
In addition, it emphasizes the fundamental role of caregivers, who assume a great emotional and physical burden. This responsibility often brings with it doubts, uncertainties, and constant worry about whether adequate care is being provided. Therefore, the guide emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's own limits, asking for help, sharing responsibilities, and being attentive to the well-being of the caregiver, to avoid burnout and ensure quality support.
Download here Guide to Psychological and Behavioral Symptoms in Alzheimer's
