Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care: 31 Tips For Caring for an Elder with Alzheimer’s

<p> </p><h1>  31 Tips for Caring For An Elder With Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: Alzheimer’s Care </h1><p><br></p><br><p> Elderly individuals with Alzheimer’s disease present a unique set of caregiving challenges. In this article, we will explore some of the key ways to provide optimal <a href=”https://www.drlizgeriatrics.com/telehealth/dementia-caregiver-taking-care-of-yourself/”>Alzheimer’s care</a> for an elder. We’ll also talk about the importance of creating support systems for the caregiver and the elder.</p><br><p> Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that affects millions of people worldwide. As the disease progresses, an individual’s ability and capacity to care for herself decreases. Families and caregivers can find it difficult to adjust to the changes in their loved ones’ lives. There are many things that you can do to make this time more bearable for everyone. Read on to learn more.</p><br><p> </p><h2>  Tips for Dementia care </h2><p><br></p><br><ol> <li>  <p>   Keep the elder’s routines as similar to their previous day-to-day life as possible – even just establishing a routine helps them feel in control  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Create a comfortable environment for them by adding things they like, such as pictures, pillows, and music – also be aware of temperature and lighting – a well-lit home is happy, and keeping lots of blankets around allows them control over their comfort  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   You can make them feel like they have control of their lives by allowing them to do what they want, when they want.  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   As you take care of your children, be patient, gentle, understanding, and kind  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Talk to your elder about the things that are happening in your life.  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Make sure to have a care plan in place  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Avoid arguing or causing conflict with the person  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Keep track of the medication, dosages and times they are taken.  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Keep the elder’s surroundings as familiar as possible  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Create a peaceful and tranquil environment  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Even if the language of an elderly person doesn’t seem to make sense, it is worth listening to.  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Encourage the elder to participate in activities they enjoy and are familiar with  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Keep track of what triggers episodes so you can try to avoid them when possible  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Keep your home as tidy and uncluttered as possible to prevent  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Encourage your elder to be active, such as gardening, cooking, and going for walks.  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Be patient with their memory problems – don’t get frustrated when they forget something you told them 10 minutes ago!  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Make sure they are eating enough food to maintain their weight  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Make sure they are up to date on world news so that they don’t feel left behind  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Help them stay active with hobbies, games, or puzzles that stimulate their mind  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Think of activities as for the mind, the body, and the heart  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Create a schedule for the day and stick to it, with regular mealtimes and activities  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Encourage them to talk about their memories – these are often what bring happiness back into their lives  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Get creative in the kitchen! Let your kids help you cook some of their favorite recipes.  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Expect to experience anger outbursts – remember that these are just symptoms of the disease.  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Stay calm and be patient – be understanding when they forget something, repeat instructions if needed, and don’t rush them into any decisions or tasks  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Take care of you  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Understanding the needs of the individual – Even the act of trying to understand can go a long ways in understanding.  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   You need to find a balance between independence &amp; assistance  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   Allow for time in the day when you can just be together with your loved one  </p> </li> <li>  <p>   You should allow yourself to be alone in your day, without anyone asking.  </p> </li></ol><br><p> </p><h2>  A Doctor Can Help With Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care! </h2><p><br></p><p> If you have a loved one who is struggling with Alzheimer’s or dementia, it can be difficult to know how to best care for them. It is important to provide education about dementia. Families can learn more about the condition and what to expect as it develops. There are many dementia education resources available, including books, articles, websites, and support groups. These resources can help families learn about dementia, how to cope with it, and where to find support.</p><p><br></p>