If you are caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s and dementia disease, you know that as the disease advances the individual’s capability to accomplish daily tasks will deteriorate. Here are some practical tips for Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
Decrease frustrations
A person with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease becomes frustrated when tasks he could easily accomplish before, become hard. Create a comfortable routine to make each day less frustrating. It is best to schedule tasks like medical appointments and bathing when the person is relaxed and most attentive. Permit some flexibility in the routine for unplanned activities, take your time so that they do not feel rushed, and anticipate things to take a longer time than before. Also, let them have breaks and offer a wide variety of choices for activities.
Build a safe environment
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia impair problem-solving skills and judgment, increasing the risk of injury. To improve safety, avoid any clutter that could cause them to fall. Fix handrails in dangerous areas and fit locks on cabinets that have potentially harmful things. Lower the regulator on hot water heaters to prevent scalds. Also, improve fire safety precautions by keeping lighters and matches out of reach and ensure a fire extinguisher is reachable.
Be flexible
Alzheimer’s and dementia care requires a lot of flexibility. As time progresses, a person living with Alzheimer’s and dementia becomes more dependent. Therefore, try to stay flexible and adjust your routine and expectations as necessary. For example, if the person insists on wearing the same outfit daily, consider purchasing identical outfits. If they resist bathing, consider doing it less frequently.
Remember, your loved one’s behaviors and responses will change from how they used to be. Flexibility, good self-care, and patience greatly help limit the challenges in Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
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