Do's and Don'ts for Alzheimer's Caregivers

Author

All About Seniors Inc

Posted on

Sep 15, 2021

Book/Edition

Colorado - Denver Metro

With more than 5 million Americans with Alzheimer's disease, there's a good chance that you have a friend, a family member or friends' family who is dealing with this disease.
Caring for a person with Alzheimer's or dementia is definitely not easy. It can be physically and emotionally draining. These dos and don'ts will help make the job of the caregiver easier and ease the patient's anxiety.

DOs
Establish a routine
Short term memory can be a problem with many dementia patients. They won't have trouble recalling events that took place decades ago, but they usually have a hard time remembering recent events and doing everyday activities such as personal grooming, dressing, and feeding. A daily routine may help them cope with the short-term memory.
People with dementia thrive on familiarity. It prevents them from becoming distracted and forgetting what they're doing.
Remain calm
More often than not, people with dementia behave aggressively, either verbally or physically. They may throw, bite, hit or kick when angry, fearful, confused or in pain. But please understand that they do not intend to cause harm. They are having a hard time communicating their feelings, which is why they tend to exhibit aggressive behaviors.
Even when you encounter aggressive behaviors, try to remain calm and be patient. Do not respond with anger or frustration.

DONTs
Lose hope
Although there is still no cure for certain types of dementia, you shouldn't lose hope. There are medications and non-drug therapies that may help improve symptoms. Keep a positive attitude, especially when interacting with them.
Forget the good times
It's easy to feel stressed and frustrated when caring for someone with dementia. You're tired, you're sleep deprived, and you no longer have time to go out with friends.
Even when you're taking care of someone, you also need to take care of yourself. It's important to take time to rest and have fun. During a stressful and emotional, painful time, being in the company of friends and having a good laugh can help. Don't forget the good times.

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Preparing Your Loved Ones Home for Sale

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All About Seniors - Northern Colorado

Housing Placement & Resource Specialists Serving Ft Collins, Loveland & Surrounding areas, Loveland, Colorado, 80538

All About Seniors is committed to assisting older adults and their families with their search for housing and services that best meet the needs of the individual considering a move; we are the ultimate resource in Colorado for senior living options. Our goal is to guide families through the process and educate them on what needs to be considered before placing their loved one. We provide options based on the persons ADL (Activities of Daily Living) needs, financial situation, and location. In addition, our personalized service helps you make an informed, comfortable decision about your own or your loved one's future. Our services save you time and money and help with the stressful task of finding information from multiple sources. We do not make any decisions and we only work with licensed communities; they must be in good standings with the state.

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