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Page 1: Caring for Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s Disease

Caring for Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s Disease

Caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging for all involved. It can also be overwhelming for you and your loved one. Remember that you aren’t alone. Many families are experiencing the same hardships and have sought out help from home health care services in their area. However, with an abundant amount of research being conducted every day, it has become much easier to learn about the disease. Research now provides suggestions on how to care for a loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. The more you know about the disease, the more likely you and your loved one can work together to take on this new test. Be aware that the same fears and concerns on your mind have also occurred to your loved one. Learn About The Disease As we mentioned initially, it’s crucial to learn all that you can about Alzheimer’s disease. Not every diagnosis or set of circumstances is the same. Some cases are a lot more unique than others. This disease causes problems with memory, logic and behavior. Often time’s symptoms may appear slowly, and worsen over time. Eventually it may disturb a person’s daily routines altogether. It’s the most common type of dementia and accounts for a large percentage of dementia cases. Alzheimer’s disease t is most common in people 65 or older; nonetheless, almost 5 percent of Alzheimer’s patients start showing signs of early on-set Alzheimer’s in their early 40s. Loved ones and caregivers or in-home nurses should be aware that the disease progressively gets worse. In fact, it’s the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. However, with your help, living with Alzheimer’s can be made a little easier. You can also possibly help increase the life expectancy of your loved one.

Page 2: Caring for Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s Disease

Establish Routines Why is it so important to establish a daily routine for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease? It provides a sense of comfort and familiarity for your loved one. Furthermore, it makes caregiving a smoother process. Your routines don’t have to be set in stone, but keeping schedules consistent, such as meal times, can help. By establishing a regular agenda, you’re providing structure and familiarity. Routines can include waking up and going to bed at the same time every day. Your loved one knows what to expect when they’ve gotten used to a daily routine. There are different cues you can use to determine different times of day. For instance, playing low, relaxing music in the evening can be a great way to insinuate bedtime is nearing. You can also do your best to involve them in as many daily activities as possible. For example, they may be capable of putting dirty clothes in a hamper when you’re trying to clean up around the home. You can also ask them to help you with maintaining the garden by watering plants. This gives them a chance to enjoy some sunlight while performing a relaxing chore. Working On Communication Unfortunately, as the disease progresses, you will have to make several changes. These changes aren’t only restricted to daily routines. Alterations will also be made in the way you communicate with one another. You may find that it’s hard to express yourselves, even when it comes to the simplest messages. You’ll begin to use hand gestures a lot. It is perfectly normal to experience frustration. Once you’ve accepted that this isn’t your loved one’s fault, you’ll begin to understand what works for you two. Often times, conversations become short and simple to improve clarity of a conversation. You may find it best to only ask one question at a time or give one direction at a time when performing daily routines. At some point, you may have to remind your loved one who you are and what your relation to them is. When doing so, it’s encouraged to speak slowly and calmly. It may take your loved one a little longer to process what you’re trying to say. It’s important to adapt. Over time you will find what communicative approach works for the two of you. Provide Encouragement Being an attentive listener and caregiver can help a loved one cope with this disease. Encouraging them to go on with daily routines and activities is a great way to support a loved one battling a degenerative neurological disorder like Alzheimer’s. Your loved one needs to know that no matter what, you will be there to help them through this difficult time. It’s important to give them as much independence as possible. By giving them a little room to make their own decisions, you’re communicating that their disease hasn’t taken over their life.

Page 3: Caring for Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s Disease

Consider Assistant Care In situations like these, it’s important to remain as optimistic as possible. There may not be a medical cure for Alzheimer’s yet, but there are so many resources available for you and a loved one living with Alzheimer’s. You may be considering additional home health care services. As Alzheimer’s become progressively worse, consider seeking out help from a personal care assistant with more experience. Teaming up with an in home come care agency will make caring for your loved one a lot less stressful and hopefully a lot easier.

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