If your mother, father, or a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer 's disease, you know how much of a commitment it is to take care of that person. It is a big challenge, but it is also a loving responsibility. At a time like this, one of our main goals should be to help them do as much as they can on their own. Then they will maintain their independence and feel a sense of joy and pride. To do that, even big tasks can be broken down into small steps and explained in simple terms. Let's see how we can make these daily tasks easier for them, and for you, the one doing them.
Let's take care of cleanliness and appearance.
Personal hygiene is very important for our self-esteem. With illness, they can forget these things.
- Even something like brushing their teeth can be a complicated task for them right now. You can teach them step by step, like, “First put some medicine on the brush… Now brush the top teeth…” Even better, you can brush your teeth together. Then they will watch you and imitate you. If you are brushing their teeth, it is easier to use a brush with a slightly longer handle or a slanted head.
- If it's a girl, encourage her to wear some makeup if she wants to. It can make her feel happy. Help her use simple things like lipstick and powder. If they find it difficult to put on eye makeup, leave it alone, don't make it a problem.
- When shaving, it is much safer to use an electric razor instead of a regular razor with blades. It can prevent cuts and injuries .
Remember these things when bathing and washing your body.
Bathing can be a frightening experience for some Alzheimer's patients, so we need to make sure that the environment is safe and calming.
Fall prevention is the most important thing. Even a small slip in the bathroom can lead to a major accident.
- Make safety a priority: Place a non-slip rubber bath mat on the bathroom floor. Install grab bars on the walls. Have a shower stool to sit on while bathing. Using a hand-held showerhead is also a great convenience. If you have difficulty getting in and out of the bathtub, a sponge bath is a good option.
- Create a calm environment: If they are fussy during bath time, play a soft song and create a calm environment. Say everything you do, step by step, “Now I’m going to pour some water…”, “Now let’s apply soap…”.
- Protect their privacy: Respect their privacy as much as possible. Cover your shoulders and lap with a towel, and clean your body with a cloth or sponge underneath the towel.
- Aggressive behavior: Sometimes they may get agitated and start hitting things. At that time , give them something like a piece of cloth in their hand. This will reduce the amount of hitting with that hand and they may calm down.
How to make getting dressed easier?
Even something as simple as choosing an outfit and putting it on can be a big challenge for Alzheimer's patients.
- Arrange them in an orderly manner: To make it easier for them to get dressed, you can arrange the clothes on the bed in the order they wear them. Or hand them out one item at a time.
- Wearing the same clothes: If they say they want to wear the same clothes every day, don't argue with them. It's normal. If possible , buy 3 or 4 sets of the same clothes.
- Choose comfortable clothes: Choose loose-fitting, loose-fitting clothes. Pants with elastic waists and slip-on shoes are great. Avoid clothes with laces, buttons, or buckles, as these can be difficult for them to use.
Let's spend our mealtimes calmly.
The environment around you has a big impact on how you eat. It's important to create a calm, distraction-free environment.
| Aspect | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Environment | Turn off the TV and radio, remove unnecessary items from the table, and create a calm environment. |
| Presentation | They may get nervous when they see too many foods at once, so serve one type of food at a time. |
| Dishes and utensils | Use solid-colored plates that are a different color from the table. This makes it easier to distinguish between food and plates. |
| Types of food | When it's hard to eat on your own, offer finger foods like tuna sandwiches and steamed broccoli. If swallowing is difficult, offer soft foods like applesauce, cottage cheese, and eggs. |
| Your patience | Don't rush them. Give them enough time to eat. If necessary, gently remind them to 'chew and swallow'. |
Let us help you spend your day actively and happily.
When you just sit around doing nothing, you feel empty. That's why it's so important to engage them in small tasks and activities.
Exercise for the brain and body
- Housework: Helping with small chores around the house can boost their self-esteem . Ask for help with simple things like dusting, sweeping the yard, folding socks, or folding laundry. You can also ask them to read the recipe while you cook or wash some vegetables .
- Physical activity: Go for a short walk together every day. It strengthens muscles , makes you feel good, and helps you sleep at night. If it's hard for you to go out, you can let your child ride a stationary bike at home.
- Mental activities: Playing word games, doing puzzles, talking about things in the newspaper, and doing a little gardening can give your brain and memory a good workout. Listening to music can also bring back old memories.
The most important thing is that if they feel frustrated or uncomfortable with an activity, stop it and try something else. Maybe it's not the right time for it. Try again later. It's not about whether you do it right or not. What matters is the time you spend together and the enjoyment that the activity brings to their day.
Take-Home Message
- Patience and understanding: Understand the changes caused by Alzheimer's disease . Patience is the most important thing.
- Simple steps: Break any task down into very small, simple steps and teach them.
- Respect their independence: Let them do things they can do on their own. It's very important for their self-esteem.
- Safety First: Always be mindful of their safety at home, especially in the bathroom.
- Think about yourself too: As a caregiver, you too may feel tired and stressed. If you are struggling, talk to your doctor about it and get support.
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