Tips For Families And Caregivers
If you are unfamiliar to Alzheimer's, the disease might seem overwhelming at first. However, there are multiple tips and tricks recommended for families and caregivers to help support their loved ones living with Alzheimer's disease.
Communication
As your loved one progresses through the stages of Alzheimer’s, it can become increasingly difficult for them to hold a conversation and accurately convey their thoughts. It is important to keep these tips in mind when communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s. Remember, above all, they are still your loved one.
1
Simplify Your Language
Try to use short and clear sentences when avoiding complex sentence structure to ensure that they can better understand you.
2
Be Patient
Speak in a gentle, reassuring tone, and allow them time to process information. It's important to be compassionate instead of frustrated about any lack in communication.
3
Minimize Distractions
Try to reduce any background noise for better focus on one-on-one interactions.
4
Validate Their Feelings
Always try to acknowledge their emotions, even if they seem illogical to you in the moment.
5
Don't Argue
Trying to correct or reason with someone experiencing confusion can increase frustration. Instead, go with the flow and respond to feelings.
6
Reminisce About Familiar Things
Discussing happy memories can be comforting and engaging for both you and your loved one. However, try not to be frustrated if you bring up something they don't remember.
7
Reassure Them
Speak calmly to the person. Let them know that you are listening and understand their concerns or frustrations.
8
Encourage 2-Way Conversations
Create opportunities for both you and your loved one to hold conversation for as long as possible.
9
Maintain A Positive And Calm Demeanor
Make eye-contact to assure the person that they are acknowledged and that you are not deterred by their difficulty communicating.
Caregiving
Families and caregivers new to Alzheimer’s are faced with the necessity of change. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, and it’s important for everyone to be prepared during every stage of the progression. Use the tips below to help you navigate you on the journey through the neurodegenerative condition.
1
Keep A Routine
Try to keep a routine and consistent schedule to prevent confusion. For example, when to take medications and eating at the same time and place.
2
Be Understanding
This disease might seem scary to you, but imagine what your loved one is going through. Foster empathy and be gentle and respectful.
3
Educate Yourself
Before the need for caregiving begins, learn as much as you can about Alzheimer's and dementia. For example, what options should you consider as the disease progresses? What is sundowning?
4
Hold A Family Meeting
Meet with your family, plan future needs, and prioritize legal and financial planning.
5
Find Resources
Look into support groups, adult day programs for seniors, caregiver conferences, or any more resources that you might want to utilize to make the journey easier.
6
Treat Them As An Individual
It is extremely important that family members and caregivers treat the patient as an individual instead of defining them by their condition. This helps maintain their sense of identity.
7
Power Of Music
While dementia patients often have difficulty finding words, many can easily sing the words or tune of a beloved song. Make a playlist of their favorite songs to listen to.
8
Avoid Denial
Take care of yourself by confronting your feelings and acknowledge what is happening. Alzheimer's isn't something meant to be avoided.
9
Create A Safe Home Environment
Modify the home to minimize safety risks, such as falls or wandering, and incorporate familiar objects and routines.