Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease can be frustrating at times because those affected with Alzheimer’s may demonstrate behavior issues when once-simple tasks become difficult or impossible. Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that impairs judgment, slowly destroys memory, problem-solving and thinking skills and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks.
It’s important to remember that lost skills will not be regained and each person who has Alzheimer’s will experience its symptoms and progression differently. However, proper management of the disease and its symptoms can make caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease a little easier.
Here are some practical tips you can utilize to help limit and ease challenges:
• Be flexible: your loved one’s responses and behaviors might be different from what they used to be. Try to stay patient and flexible and adapt your routine as needed.
• Provide simple instructions: when you ask your loved one to do something, do it one step at a time. Expect things to take longer than they used to.
• Reduce distractions: turn off the television and minimize other distractions at mealtime and during conversations so that your loved one can better focus on the task at hand.
• Manage scheduling tasks: schedule the most difficult tasks, such as bathing or medical appointments, for the time of day when your loved one tends to be most calm and agreeable.
• Establish a routine: this helps provide structure, meaning, and a sense of accomplishment for the person with Alzheimer’s.
• Create a safe environment: avoid scatter rugs, extension cords and any clutter that could cause your loved one to trip or fall. Install locks on cabinets that contain anything potentially dangerous, such as medicine, alcohol, guns, toxic cleaning substances, etc.
As a caregiver, it’s important to also understand and act according to your own physical and emotional limitations, and to take care of yourself. Allow yourself periods of rest and relaxation.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association approximately 53 million people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in the United States. Although treatment can help manage symptoms in some people, currently there is no cure for this devastating disease.Â
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research. The Santa Clarita Walk will be held on Sunday, September 20th. To find out more information and/or register for the Walk go to: www.alz.org.
For more information on Assisted Living and programs for those affected with dementia please contact Oakmont Senior Living at 661-295-2025 or visit our website at www.oakmontofsantaclarita.com.