Alzheimer's Caregiving Essay

Alzheimer Caregiving Tips

Caring for someone with Alzheimer can be an arduous task. It can be overwhelming especially if you have minimal knowledge about the disease. Alzheimer is the most common form of dementia and it has been accounted for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases. Although this is not a normal part of aging, it commonly affects those who are 65 years of age and older. In some cases, it can have an early onset for as early as 40 to 50 years old. Alzheimer symptoms differ depending on its stages, which can worsen over time. This includes, absent-mindedness, confusion in situations outside the norm, speech impairment, difficulty in retaining information, loss of self-awareness, and debilitating cognitive deficit. Alzheimer has

Patience and understanding are needed when you’re dealing with people with Alzheimer.

Call the person by name and make eye contact before speaking to make sure you have his or her attention.

Use a calm and gentle voice when talking. Use simple words and short sentences, but avoid baby talk.

When communicating, make sure that there are minimal noises and distractions around so the person will stay in focus.

Wait patiently for their response and be careful not to interrupt. Repeat the question or information as needed.

If the person is struggling to communicate their thoughts, gently try to supply the word if needed.

Bathing and Dressing

In some cases, people with Alzheimer tend to get agitated, frightened, and confused when it’s time to take a bath. Here are few pointers to help ease their worry and keep them comfortable.

Schedule bathing at the time when the person is relaxed and agreeable. Make sure to keep it as a routine to help them get used to it.

Tell the person what you are going to do step by step and allow them to do as much as

Eating

Encourage them to have a healthy eating habit. Some may tend to eat all the time, while others may be more difficult to motivate thus it is vital that you know how what to do to keep them well-nourished.

Aim for a quiet and calm atmosphere during meal times. Make sure to minimize distractions and noise such as television or radio.

Try to be patient and avoid rushing when they take too much time in eating.

Allow them food choices but limit it to fewer options. Offer appealing foods with familiar flavors and textures.

Serve small portions or small meals throughout the day. Offer them finger foods, shakes and other snack options.

Make sure they are drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Be attentive when they are eating because they are at risk of choking due to chewing and swallowing problems.

Exercise and Activities

Making time for exercise and simple activities can help in improving the overall health of both caregiver and the person with Alzheimer’s disease. It allows you to share meaningful activity and relaxation.

Choose a physical activity you can both enjoy such as walking, swimming, dancing or