Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative disorder that adversely impacts cognition, behavior, and memory over time. Those who have Alzheimer’s often rely on their loved ones and friends for help on a daily basis. Caregiving for an elderly family member at home is a popular option when Alzheimer’s disease has been identified. Here, we’ll go over some things to keep in mind when caring for an Alzheimer’s patient.
Tips for Alzheimer’s Care
Caregiving responsibilities for someone with Alzheimer’s or a similar dementia rise as the disease advances. Think about how you might maximize the dementia patient’s involvement in daily activities while still getting everything done. Following are some suggestions for Alzheimer’s long term care.
Create a Schedule for the Day
Establishing a routine can be as comforting as a familiar home environment for Alzheimer’s patients because it provides a consistent structure within which they can do their daily activities. Start by keeping tabs on your loved one’s daily activities and looking for trends in their mood and behavior. With this knowledge, you may adjust your expectations and get the best possible treatment. Keep in mind that the abilities and preferences of Alzheimer’s patients can change daily, so be prepared to make adjustments as necessary.
Form Fun Activities That Promote Interaction
Make sure your loved one’s daily care plan includes hobbies and pursuits suited to their interests and abilities. In most cases, it is more effective to build upon already established competencies rather than attempt to impart completely new information. Assist the person in getting started and simplify the process as much as possible.
Make Your House a Safer Place
Caregivers for people with Alzheimer’s must look at their homes with fresh eyes to spot and address any dangers. Many potentially harmful and distressing events can be avoided if precautions are taken to ensure a safe house. An aging specialist or occupational therapist can help with this first step, if needed, by conducting a thorough home safety evaluation. Removing locks from bedrooms and bathrooms is a good idea so elderly people can’t get locked in. You can also consider entrusting your loved one in nursing homes in Fullerton to care for them properly.
Help Them Keep Their Pets
In many ways, having a pet can improve the quality of life for seniors. Alzheimer’s patients benefit greatly from the unconditional affection and company of pets like cats and dogs. Those in the preliminary phases may find caring for a pet is a good way to keep moving. It is possible to find solutions to keep a person and their pet together even if it becomes more challenging for the person to care for the pet. For example, you could ask a neighbor or friend to feed your cat or dog at the proper times and walk your dog when necessary.
Assist Them in Eating a Nutritious Diet
Alzheimer’s patients must be assisted in maintaining healthy eating and drinking habits. Caregivers can make sure a patient eats well by doing things like:
- Providing daily meals at the same time
- Putting food on plates of varying colors to draw attention to it
- Give out more food in the morning
- Persuade them to take a multivitamin
- Serve them snacks, such as cheese, fruit, or sandwich slices
- Remove any background noise from the dining room
- Pick foods that don’t require too much chewing or swallowing
Visit some websites like parkvista.net to know your options for your loved one with Alzheimer’s.