Alzheimer’s and dementia care tasks will only increase as the disease progresses. If you fulfill primary caregiver functions for a loved one, it’s better to start thinking about how you’ll handle the situation better. The following are a few practical tips to help you.
Establish a Routine
People with dementia are easily agitated when tasks become difficult. They can become dangerous to themselves and to others, which is why it’s crucial to keep them from getting frustrated. One way to make that happen is to limit challenging situations that could lead to frustration, and that could be done by establishing a routine.
Pick the Right Time
When you organize your loved one’s schedule, pick out times where the person is most alert, refreshed, or energized. During those times it will be easier for you and your loved one to manage the most difficult tasks.
Be Flexible
People with Alzheimer’s disease tend to take longer. If you’re impatient, you’ll find this unbearable and that will impact your time together. Instead, accept that tasks will take longer. Put that into your schedule. Allow many breaks in between tasks or activities.
Engage the Person
Let your loved one do as much as they can. This could be as simple as setting the table or dressing independently, with you providing little to no assistance.
Provide Options
Offer them options. For instance, lay down two choices for the day’s clothing. Ask if they would rather prefer a cold or hot drink. Choices make the person think and engage, and that mental engagement is key to slowing down the progress of the disease.
Get Help
As Alzheimer’s disease worsens, the care requirements of your loved one will increase, become more demanding and complex over time. You can’t do this alone. Seek out professional help.
