Coping tips for couples

After a diagnosis of young-onset Alzheimer's, spouses or partners often feel a sense of loneliness or loss as they face the possibility of spending many years without an active partner.

Losing the romantic component and changing to a caregiver status also complicates the relationship. Try to:

• Talk about what kind of help you need from each other. Communicate about changes you're experiencing and ways in which your needs also may have changed. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
• Continue participating in as many as possible of the activities that you currently enjoy with your partner and adapt as necessary. Or find new activities that you can enjoy together.
• Keep a folder of resources you may need as the disease progresses.
• Find a counselor who works with couples facing issues you feel challenged by, such as sexuality and changing roles in the relationship.