"A waiting person is a patient person." - Henri J.M. Nouwen

Argh! Have you ever felt impatient at a red light, or irritated at the end of a long line for a prescription at the pharmacy? You're not alone.

Patience can feel scarce when you don't have control over a situation. It can feel like caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease interrupts your personal life and brings a slew of frustrations at the worst moments. Finding a tiny bit of control can bring us patience later.

Control might look like self-care: a walk around the block, getting up early for 15 minutes of alone time, spending time each week encouraging others who care for someone with Alzheimer's or starting a gratitude journal. Don't let anyone (including yourself!) make you feel guilty for taking care of yourself.

Here are recent conversations from MyALZTeam:

• "When I am so frustrated with him and his repeated questions I try to remember how frustrating and hard it must be for him. He tries so hard to remember but the most short term is gone in 5 minutes. I ask the Lord each day for patience and love for my sweetie."
• "Every day is tiring and hard work. Patience is everything. It is hard not taking the bad days to heart. I just try and take one day at a time hoping the new day will be a good one."
• "I am more patient after a break by stepping out of the room when my attitude is escalating Momma’s behavior. I also play music to calm us both down whenever my nerves are being frayed. A few minutes laying down in a quiet room helps calm my head and ease my back."

Have you found ways to take back control and practice patience? What do you do to be more open to self-care? Share your insights in the comments below or directly on myALZteam.com.