5 Tips for Caring for a Parent With Alzheimer's
Posted on: 16 December 2016
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Finding out that your parent has Alzheimer's disease can be devastating. This disease progressively gets worse and your parent will not be able to do everyday tasks that came so easily before. However, instead of getting frustrated and upset, try to make your parent's life as happy and stress free as possible. Here are five helpful tips for caring for a parent with Alzheimer's:
Create a Routine
If your parent has Alzheimer's, it is helpful to follow the same routine every day. When things are more predictable, your parent will experience a lot less stress. Try to schedule breakfast, bath time, doctor's appointments and other activities at the same time every day.
Change the Way You Communicate
A person with Alzheimer's may have trouble comprehending some of the things you say and can take longer to respond. It is important to be patient and avoid getting frustrated if you have to repeat certain words or phrases. When asking your parent questions, make them as easy as possible to answer. For example, instead of asking your parent what he or she wants to do that day, ask if he or she would rather go to the park or the beach.
Remove Dangerous Items
It is not possible to watch your parent every second, so it's important to get rid of possible dangers, like knives and matches.
Make Meal Times Pleasant
Some patients with Alzheimer's may struggle to eat, so its vital to make meal times pleasant for your loved one. Start by getting rid of all distractions. If your the environment is calm and quiet, your parent can concentrate on eating his food. Also, try to feed your parent foods with familiar flavors and textures.
Consider Hiring a Caregiver
Caring for a parent with Alzheimer's can definitely take up a lot of your time. If you are too busy with work and other obligations, consider hiring a professional caregiver to take care of your loved one. This professional can come to your parent's home and help him or her with everyday tasks, like dressing, bathing, cooking and doing the laundry.
Caring for a parent with Alzheimer's can definitely get frustrating at times, but it does not have to be unbearable. If you follow these helpful tips, you can help make things easier on your parent. Also, do not forget to take your parent to all of his or her doctor's appointments.