4 ways to help a family member living with Alzheimer’s
When a family member has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it can be extremely difficult to know how to cope with the evolving situation. Caring for someone with the disease can be a lengthy, traumatic, emotional rollercoaster as you watch the one you love suffering from severe memory decline. While you may wish to do everything in your power to take care of your loved one throughout this difficult time, it’s important to maintain your own health and wellbeing so you’re able to be a strong support.
If you’re wondering how best to deal with your loved one’s declining condition, this guide will give you some useful tips to make the situation more manageable.
1. Hire a live-in caregiver
While you may wish to be with your loved one on a 24-hour basis, it can be extremely difficult when you have other personal commitments. However, as their mental state declines, it may come to a point where they are no longer safe left alone for any period, meaning 24-hour care is the only option.
Some dementia sufferers may become distressed at the idea of moving out of their home; however, there is the alternative of live in care. These carers will live in the home with your loved one and provide the attention and duties required, as well as domestic responsibilities, medication management and communicating with doctors to give you the peace of mind that all is taken care of in your absence.
2. Prepare for the future
The more you know about your loved one’s illness, the better. It’s always best to be prepared for what may happen in the near future so that you’re aware of the challenges that lie ahead and how you should be dealing with them. Though it may be difficult to learn about the potential decline of your loved one’s health, it will give you time to make the correct decisions and plans in their best interests.
3. Be aware of sleep disturbances
It’s not unusual for dementia and Alzheimer’s sufferers to endure poor sleep patterns. Cognitive decline can have an impact on their internal body clock, which means they are likely to become disorientated come late evening time and potentially awaken frequently during the night.
There are various ways you can help sleep issues with Alzheimer’s sufferers:
- Purchase an Alzheimer’s clock which details the time of the day.
- Aim to limit the number of naps they take.
- Ensure they get plenty of exercise.
- Reduce their caffeine consumption.
- Ensure their bedroom is as dark as possible, by installing blackout blinds.
If they are still having difficulty sleeping despite putting these procedures in place, it may be best to consult their GP.
4. Dealing with communication
As your loved one’s condition deteriorates, you’ll notice they will be unable to communicate as they once did. You may find that they find it difficult expressing what they wish to say.
While this is an unavoidable aspect of Alzheimer’s, there are many ways you can make communication easier. Keep sentences concise and straightforward and speak slowly, as it often takes longer to mentally process speech.
