Almost seven million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and that number continues to grow. If your loved one is one of them, you may wonder how to make things easier.
At his practice in Arcadia, California, board-certified neurologist Kenneth K. Wogensen, MD, provides high-quality care for Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. This blog provides simple tips for managing daily caregiving challenges and improving your quality of life.
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is challenging because it affects nearly all aspects of your life. Since Alzheimer’s causes significant changes in memory, communication, and behavior, you must always think ahead to ensure your loved one’s health and safety.
With chronic conditions like heart disease and cancer, your loved one can still answer questions and play an active role in their care. Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, on the other hand, often cause confusion and agitation, throwing an extra layer of complexity into your responsibilities.
The good news is a strategic caregiving approach can make all the difference. Here are a few simple tips for making Alzheimer’s care easier.
Establishing a daily routine is a great way to stay focused and on-task, but for people with Alzheimer’s, it can also reduce confusion and anxiety and provide a sense of control.
If your loved one knows exactly when they’re going to eat, bathe, and get dressed, they’re less likely to become agitated or argumentative. A structured routine can also preserve your senior’s autonomy, especially if you stick to the schedule they’ve followed most of their life.
Seeing your loved one struggle to remember names or instructions can be devastating, but it’s a part of Alzheimer’s caregiving. Rather than feel sad or angry, try to practice patience. If you stay calm, cool, and collected, you provide a more relaxing and stress-free environment. This can be a boon to enhancing communication and helping your loved one feel their best.
Whenever you speak, use a positive, friendly tone. If you feel yourself getting angry or frustrated, take a step back and breathe. Remember: the disease is responsible for their changes in behavior and thinking.
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, many patients find it difficult to complete routine tasks, like getting dressed and bathing. You can reduce some of this burden by making ADL easier.
For example, if your loved one struggles with buttons and zippers, have them wear comfortable, easy-to-use clothing, like sweatpants and pullover tops. Likewise, you might want to transition to shoes with velcro tabs instead of laces.
To reduce the risk of falls in the bathroom, install grab bars on the walls and a shower seat. Or, if that’s too risky, provide sponge baths with disposable adult washcloths. Small changes can make a big difference in your loved one’s quality of life.
You’ve got a lot on your plate as an Alzheimer’s caregiver, but that doesn’t mean you should burn the candle at both ends. Consider that 60% of family caregivers report feelings of burnout.
Although it can be challenging, set aside time each day to do something you love, whether reading a book, going for a nature walk, or sipping a cup of your favorite tea. It doesn’t have to be long, but aim for 15-30 minutes. Making time for self-care can prevent burnout, reduce stress, and help you be your best.
In addition to making time to relax, focus on your general well-being. Dr. Wogensen recommends eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and asking for help when you need it.
Adjusting to life as an Alzheimer’s caregiver takes time and effort. If you’re struggling with your new responsibilities, partner with a qualified medical professional. Dr. Wogensen can help your loved one manage their diagnosis and provide guidance to help you and your family members cope.
To schedule an appointment with Kenneth K. Wogensen, MD, call, or book an appointment online.
