When you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, one of your main objectives is to enable your loved one to function well without anyone else’s help.
This encourages him or her to keep a sense of freedom. You can break down tasks into simple steps or even write out simple instructions. The checklist below can greatly help you in taking care of your loved one day by day.
Demonstrate to your loved one how to brush his or her teeth well, or brush yours simultaneously. You can use a long-handled, angled or electric tooth brush for him or her.
If your loved one wants to use cosmetics or makeup, encourage it. Help her with lipstick and powder when needed. Skip eye cosmetics because they may be too difficult for her to handle.
For shaving, they should use an electric razor rather than the one with blades.
Make them use a hand-held showerhead, a rubber mat, some grab bars, and a shower stool to prevent falls. If they have difficulty getting in and out of the tub, just make them do sponge baths instead.
To make them relax during bath time, play some soothing music and show them your support.
Give them privacy. Put a towel over your loved ones’ shoulders and lap. Clean up under the towel with a washcloth or a sponge.
If they get restless and hitting is an issue, give them a washcloth to hold. They may become less aggressive and may quiet down.
Make it less demanding for him or her to dress without anyone else. Spread out his or her garments in order, or hand him one piece of clothing at a time.
If they want to wear the same clothes every day, don’t force them. You can purchase 3 or 4 sets of them.
Ensure that your loved one has loose clothes that can easily be put on. Shorts and jeans with flexible belts and slip-on shoes are great. Skip shoelaces, clasps and buttons.
Keep mealtimes simple and quiet. Put off the TV and radio. Move the unneeded things off the table. If he or she is confused by a lot of foods, serve one thing at a time.
Utilize solid colored plates on a color-contrasted mat so it’s simpler for them to tell the difference between the food on the plate from the mat or the table.
Always remind them to bite and swallow. Try not to hurry them. Be patient, and give them a lot of time to eat. You can use finger foods like sandwiches, broccoli pieces or segments of fruit. If swallowing is hard, serve them some soft foods like eggs, soups and porridge.
Make them assist with house work like dusting, sweeping, fixing things, sorting laundry or helping you cook. Assisting with tasks can help confidence.
Make them stay active by taking a walk together in the morning. They can also use resistance bands and stationary bikes.
Spend time with them by playing some word games, gardening or doing puzzles. Make them listen to music which can bring back their memories.
Remember, the time you spend with your loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease is precious. Start bonding with them now!
Get your health, beauty and wellness product online! Shop now at Watsons. Click here to start shopping.
-Medical Observer
Overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health. A body mass […]
Around 27 million Filipino adults are overweight or obese, according to the latest National Nutrition Survey conducted by the Food […]
Advances in scientific and technological knowledge have provided unprecedented advantages in terms of immeasurable convenience in our daily living, lightning-fast […]
