When someone starts to develop Alzheimer’s, it can cause strain on their loved ones. Sometimes it becomes difficult because we often don’t know what to do when their behavior changes. It’s important to keep in mind: their actions often cannot be controlled. Still, how can we care for someone afflicted by Alzheimer’s?
Short and simple
Those with Alzheimer’s will often forget that they’ve just asked a question multiple times. You will probably be tempted to give them an answer you would give someone else. But this might involve a lengthier and more complicated response. If you keep your response short and concise, you won’t be as frustrated when you have to repeat it as many times as they ask. It will also be easier for them to understand what you are saying.
If you find yourself having to repeat yourself often, keep these tips in mind:
•Consider (why they are asking); think about how they feel and give a response that can resolve frustrating emotions.
•Distract; the best way to get their mind somewhere else is to ask for help. Ask them to perform a simple task to occupy their mind for a few minutes. This can be as simple as setting the table or folding the laundry.
•Break; don’t be afraid to take a second for yourself if you are becoming angry. Losing your temper on someone with Alzheimer’s will just be frustrating for everybody. Take a moment to gather yourself to keep your cool.
Keep it consistent
As someone with Alzheimer’s declines the memory more, it can be difficult to keep new things organized. New experiences are jarring and can be frustrating without having patience. When a family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, consider making a weekly schedule. Include things like laundry, grocery shopping, meals, and anything else you can keep consistent.
Give them independence
Early on, those with Alzheimer’s simply need a small reminder to accomplish their daily tasks. Guide them softly at first, letting them keep their control. The longer they stay active and aware, the longer their memory will stay in better shape.
For more complex tasks, like managing money or keeping track of medications, make sure they don’t make mistakes. If they do, gently correct it for them and assure them you are there to help.
Take care of yourself
Sometimes the best thing you can do for someone with Alzheimer’s is to take care of yourself. Seeing a loved one’s memory decline is can be frustrating. Consider a few of these tips to keep yourself ready for whatever comes your way:
•Keep yourself connected; having people around you as you care for someone with Alzheimer’s will make it easier to decompress. Try to find others that are going through the same thing for encouragement and comfort.
•Ask for help; know that the people around you want to help. We never want to take a break from helping our loved ones with Alzheimer’s, but sometimes we need a moment to recollect. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to step in for an afternoon, so you can get the time you need to recharge.
•Don’t take it personally; Alzheimer’s is a disease that someone can’t control in their head. Sometimes they forget important things, and you must be forgiving. They don’t mean to hurt you, so care for them even when it’s difficult.
•Laugh and be happy; your loved ones with Alzheimer’s are still your loved ones. Laugh with them and let yourself fall into the moments that make you happy. It’ll remind you of why they mean so much to you.
Taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s is difficult but manageable. Know the tips to care for them and yourself, and you’ll be an incredible caretaker and loved one. And don’t forget, Silver State Neurology can help.