Tips for Caring for Seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease

Caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s can be challenging in many different ways. It can be an emotional experience as a family caregiver grapples with the grief and frustration that they are feeling as they see their lover one go through the disease symptoms. It can also be challenging because each day is different. It is difficult to know what to expect. Here are some tips that will help you provide compassionate care to seniors living with Alzheimer’s.

Educate Yourself– It is important for you to have a strong understanding of how Alzheimer’s affects seniors so that you know what to expect. When you understand the different stages of Alzheimer’s, it is a lot easier for you to provide the proper care. It is also helpful to encourage family and friends to educate themselves as it may assist them in dealing with their own emotions and help them learn how to better interact with their loved one. Check out iCare Home Health Resource Page on Alzheimer’s & Dementia in Seniors as a good starting point.

Create Predictable Routines– Setting up a structured daily routine can be helpful for someone living with Alzheimer’s. Include specific times for sleeping, meals, bathing and socialization. Customize the routine to the person and get their input where possible.

Communicate Clearly– Keep in mind that a person living with Alzheimer’s may find communication more difficult. Make it easier for them by speaking slowly and clearly and provide explanations when needed. Don’t point out when they have trouble remembering; just repeat yourself and do what you can to make them feel safe and comfortable. Reduce the number of voices and sounds competing for their attention.

Make Sure that their Home is Safe– Do an inspection of the person’s home to remove as many potential hazards as possible. Put sharp and breakable objects and household cleaners in safe places and put up safety reminders like”turn off stove” or “unplug curling iron”. Labeling meals in the fridge or kitchen counter is also helpful.

Encourage Mental Activities– Encourage the person to engage in mental activities such as reading, doing puzzles, and doing crafts. iCare Therapeutic Art Program has been very beneficial in improving the mood and reducing the possibility of depression. Since these activities help stimulate the brain, they are beneficial to people living with Alzheimer’s.

You may be surprised to discover how much these simple suggestions can help when you are caring for person who is living with Alzheimer’s disease. Their daily life has changed significantly and now they need to find ways to cope. If you are struggling to make life easier for someone who is living with Alzheimer’s, call us, we can help.

ICare Home Health Services provides care for seniors including Alzheimer Care in Milton, Alzheimer care in Mississauga and Alzheimer care in Oakville.