There are currently 5.3 million people in America suffering from Alzheimer's disease (AD), and they're being looked after by 10.9 million unpaid caregivers, according to the Alzheimer's Association. Since AD is a degenerative disease, the task of caring for somebody suffering from Alzheimer's grows more and more difficult as the disease progresses. Managing even basic activities such as eating, talking, sleeping or entertaining can become difficult.
Here are some tips to help you in your role as caregiver:
Daily Activities
1.Include activities the Alzheimers patient enjoys in your daily routine.
2.For new activities, build on existing skills in order to get started, and then break the activity into smaller steps to make it more achievable.
3.Communicate with the patient by using short sentences and simple words.
4.Minimize outside noises, such as the television, so that the patient doesn't get distracted.
Personal Care
1.Minimize the confusion of bath time by being prepared. Have everything you need in advance.
2.When getting ready for the day, talk the person through what you are going to do, step-by-step, so they know what to expect.
3.Minimize challenges in dressing. Avoid buttons and zippers that may be confusing.
4.Keep your routine consistent.
