Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be a difficult task, but supporting your loved one can be easier with our tips. Not only is it important to give your loved one the best care, but to take care of yourself in the process.
Stages of Alzheimer’s
The symptoms of Alzheimer’s worsen as the disease advances, giving caregivers new difficulties. Understanding the phases and symptoms of Alzheimer’s can assist in planning ahead.
Mild Alzheimer’s
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease in the mild or early phase can still function alone.
- They can continue to be involved in professional and social activities.
- People may have trouble focusing or remembering things during this phase.
- Some words or names may be forgotten.
- Difficulties in writing and solving problems are some of Alzheimer’s other early signs.
Moderate Alzheimer’s
Moderate Alzheimer’s disease involves significant memory loss, confusion, and physical symptoms.
- Memory loss of recent events.
- Difficulty with problem-solving, complex tasks and sound judgments.
- Changes in personality.
- Difficulty organizing and expressing thoughts.
- Getting lost or misplacing belongings.
Severe Alzheimer’s
In the final stage of this disease, dementia symptoms are severe. Individuals lose the ability to respond to their environment, to carry on a conversation and, eventually, to control movement.
- People in the final phase of Alzheimer’s disease need assistance with nearly all of their daily tasks, such as standing up, walking, and eating.
- People may lose the capacity to participate in discussion during this phase. They may struggle to chew or swallow.
- Many individuals with serious Alzheimer’s lose consciousness of their surroundings and their family members can no longer be recognized.
Tips to Help Care for your Loved One
Establish a Routine
By creating a steady daily routine, caregivers can create a sense of comfort. Doing this can allow the individual with Alzheimer’s to build a feeling of familiarity.
People with Alzheimer’s often need time to adapt to new individuals and locations, so caregivers should attempt to gradually introduce changes.
Enjoy Activities Together
A caregiver can try to plan outings around the time of day when they’re is at their best, which can vary from person to person.
Some individuals might feel best in the morning, while others have more energy and are more alert at night. During an outing, a caregiver can observe the energy levels of the individual and return home before they become too tired.
Some Examples of activities are:
- cooking and baking
- exercises, such as walking, stretching, and light weight training
- dancing
- listening to music
- playing a simple board game
Social Connection
Alzheimer’s can have a significant effect on how a person interacts with others. They may have trouble interpreting particular words or remembering them. In the middle of a sentence, they may also often lose their train of thought.
Different ways to make communication easier:
- maintain eye contact and smile
- ask only one question at a time
- use the other person’s name
- use open and relaxed body language
- try to remain calm during angry outbursts
Promoting communication can provide an opportunity for the individual to engage in discussions and activities.
Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas
Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.
We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.
