Senior Home Care- Coping With Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's Disease is a disease of the brain that affects the memory. It is also the leading cause of dementia. Dementia may affects individuals with following directions, remembering, thinking and being able to perform daily activities. Everyone is affected differently by dementia. But the people who are most affected by the disease are the families that will have to provide the care and make the decisions for their loved one. Sometimes, the subtle changes are difficult to recognize. When trying to discuss the issue with mom or dad, they may pretend that nothing is wrong. That is why it is very important when families feel something may not be right with their loved one, to enlist the help of your doctor. An early diagnosis may provide benefits from treatments that are available today. One day mom or dad may have a loss of appetite, mood swings, difficulty in making decisions, slight forgetfulness, loss of interest in activities, loss of interest for proper hygiene, wearing the same clothes, not opening mail, confusion, personality changes and sometimes problems with communicating with others. These may be some signs that something is not right. The onset of Alzheimer's/dementia may be subtle so an early diagnosis is very important as the disease will progress.
When dealing with a loved one that has been diagnosed with this disease, try to allow them to be as independent for as long as possible. Provide a safe, quiet environment. Communicate with the individual as an adult, not as a child. Set up a daily routine so that your loved one will know what to expect. Do not allow too many choices to prevent more confusion. Always be patient. Allow them their dignity at all times. Always praise the individual for the things they can do. Be patient. Since changes or new places often confuse the person more, so try to minimize any changes in their routine or activities. Allow them the benefit of the doubt and let them try to do things on their own, and always offer praise for a job well done. When undesired behavior may occur, redirect the behavior promptly by changing the conversation, or tone. Controlling the behavior may be worse than redirecting it. Play soft music. Offer a snack. Suggest an activity, reminisce. By gently distracting the individual the behavior may stop. Since people feed off of each other, individuals with Alzheimer's/Dementia may be more sensitive to the stress and anxiety that they see you may be feeling. So always try to be patient and loving when dealing with the individual. When speaking use a mild voice and always make sure you are speaking directly to the person. If possible, allow your loved one be stay involved in daily activities like folding laundry, helping you prepare meals if possible, engaging them in conversation about things they like, making cookies, gardening, doing simple crafts. Give direction and encouragement. This will make your loved one feel useful. Always match the activity to their interest and ability. Allow them the time to perform the activity at their own pace, and always offer praise for what they still can accomplish. Being a care provider for an individual with Dementia is emotionally and physically draining and overwhelming. Especially when the care provider may have their own children, or job. This can compound the daily responsibilities and stress of everyday life. Care providers need to take care of themselves at all times. First, understand the disease. Contact your local Alzheimer's Association. Try to join a support group. Eat healthy meals. Get enough rest. Take time out for you and the things you enjoy. Do not feel guilty and let other family members know when you are feeling overwhelmed. Enlist a schedule with family members for care options, so that you are able to get that much needed break. Taking care of yourself will allow you to take better care of your loved one. Remember, your life is just as important. Don't loose your spirit. Your emotional well-being is just as important as your loved one's. Take it one day at a time. If you or someone you know may be in need of respite or any assistance providing in-home care for a loved one please feel free to visit us at http://www.heartsofgoldhomecare.com/