By Diana Kohnle, HealthDay News
Published Week of July 29 - August 4

Being a caregiver for an elderly family member or friend can be overwhelming and stressful.

The Alzheimer's Association offers these suggestions to help caregivers handle their responsibilities while alleviating stress:

• Take advantage of services that can help -- adult day care, visiting nurses and other services can offer a caregiver much-needed breaks.
• Continue educating yourself on the condition that your loved one has. Learn better ways to care for the patient and understand what to expect.
• Don't be afraid to ask friends and other family members for help.
• Reduce stress and take care of your body by eating right, getting exercise and making time for activities that you enjoy.
• Get legal and financial planning under control, and consult an attorney or legal advisor on what needs to be done.
• Be proud of what you are doing, rather than feeling guilty about what you can't accomplish.

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