Supporting Seniors with Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer's is a neuro/cognitive disease that impacts a person's mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. Having support and a plan to navigate the impact of cognitive changes makes all the difference. For family caregivers, the following are some ways to help support your loved one with Alzheimer's.Talk to your doctor if you notice a neuro/cognitive delay in your loved one's abilities. Memory loss and cognitive changes are not a normal part of aging. Seeking help early can give your loved one the best medical options.
Many new medicines are available in clinical trials for qualifying seniors. Be a medical hero and take part in helping discover new therapies to help seniors with Alzheimer's. You and your family are not alone in your Alzheimer's journey. Connect with your local senior center or Alzheimer's Association for local support. Reach out and schedule routine respite care.
Create reminders to provide time orientation and healthy habits. For example, place a large print calendar in easy view to provide time orientation. Have water bottles in easily accessible locations with signs to encourage hydration throughout the day. Remind seniors about daily hygiene with a sign near toothbrushes. Be creative and fun in your approach!
The Alzheimer's Association recommends a diet low in saturated fat, total fat and cholesterol and high in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy. Choose meals with whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts. Remove or reduce your intake of fats, red meats, sweets, sugared beverages, and sodium.For seniors, having a sleeping, eating, and daily hygiene routine can promote wellness and reduce stress and anxiety. Create a routine that works for you, and plan your social activities around your healthy routine.
During June, the Alzheimer's Association encourages people across the globe to wear purple and help others broaden their understanding of Alzheimer's disease. A growing number of resources are available to help individuals and their families learn how to navigate living with dementia. Join us in helping others expand their awareness of ways to enhance brain health and lead productive and meaningful lives despite the challenges of living with dementia. To learn more about Go Purple activities from the Alzheimer's Association at https://alz.org/abam/overview.asp#goPurple.
Learn more about Traycee Home Care's approach to Dementia Care.
References
Brodaty, H., & Donkin, M. (2009). Family caregivers of people with dementia. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 11(2), 217–228. https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2009.11.2/hbrodaty.