Stories from caregivers

After 45 years together I now care for her. The Alzheimer Café is a place where I can be myself for a while.

At school they now know things can be busy at home. Since I've shared it, it feels a lot lighter.

Caring for my son goes on day and night. Respite care at the weekend gives me just enough breathing room.

I learned to ask for help and share tasks with my sister. We carry it together, instead of me alone.

When my mother was diagnosed with dementia, my world stood still for a moment. The case manager gave us so much peace of mind.

Thanks to day activities my father has more structure, and I have some time for myself again. That makes such a difference.

I combine caring with my job. It can be tough, but my employer is understanding and that helps enormously.

Talking about it with people going through the same brings recognition and strength. I'm glad I have those peers.

Thanks to respite care I could catch my breath. Just recharging, so I could carry on afterwards.

I often feel like the link between all the care providers. The case manager helps me keep an overview.

As a young caregiver you have little time and energy. It helps when people around you show understanding.

It's the little things that make the difference: a listening ear, practical tips and the occasional compliment.

You care out of love, but you also have to take good care of yourself. That's something I've learned.

My employer gave me the space to work from home sometimes. That was the difference between keeping going and breaking down.

Alongside my studies I care for my mother. For a long time I thought that was normal, until someone asked how I was doing.