Alzheimer’s disease is an illness that affects cognitive functioning when an abnormal buildup of fragmented protein clusters impede neurological activates in the brain which cause memory, thinking and behavioral problems.
Properly caring for an Alzheimer’s patient requires maintaining a daily routine, for both the caregiver and patient.
At some point in time Alzheimer’s patients will need help with bathing, brushing their teeth, getting dressed and even combing their hair. However, because these are very personal activities, patients will often resist assistance due to embarrassment or being angry because they can no longer care for themselves.
Helping Alzheimer’s patients to bath is perhaps the most difficult job for caregivers, but planning ahead can help make bath time easier.
Alzheimer’s patients usually require extra time to get dressed, as it can be hard for them to pick out the proper clothing and may choose improper clothing for the season. However, allow the patient to dress alone for as long as possible. Here are a few tips:
Consuming healthy foods is very important for Alzheimer’s patients, as there is some evidence that well-balanced diet may have a positive effect on symptoms.
In the early stage of Alzheimer’s the patient’s eating habits usually won’t change, but when changes do happen it may not be safe for the patient to continue to live alone. Watch for these signs:
Being active helps Alzheimer’s patients to maintain a healthier lifestyle. Alzheimer’s patients should be encouraged to do as much as they can for themselves, but you must also make sure that the patient is safe during activities.
Some Alzheimer’s patients may not be able to move around well enough to exercise, and this can become a greater challenge as the disease progresses due to:
Even patients who experience trouble walking any distance may still be able to execute exercises around the home, such as: