Advice When Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

It is not always an easy task caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, especially as they decline. In honor of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, CommuniCare employee Krishel Connelly, MA, CCCSLP offers tips to help caregivers navigate their caregiving journey.

First and foremost, remember to take care of yourself and your mental health while caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or any disability or disease. It’s okay to ask for help and seek additional support services when needed, and don’t underestimate the importance of self-care.

It’s also important to keep in mind that challenges and frustration are normal, and every day will be different depending on your loved one’s mood and behaviors. Here are several ideas that can help reduce frustration for both the caregiver and the care receiver.

• Try to establish a daily routine, though be mindful of the need to be flexible on difficult days.
• Provide choices so that the loved one feels important in decisions, but keep it simple by
  limiting the number of options. For example, a piece of cake or a brownie, a t-shirt or a
  sweater, paint or color.
• Reduce distractions, especially during mealtime or when communicating, so that your loved
  one can improve attention to tasks.
• Use clear and simple communication to improve mutual understanding.
  • Keep a calm tone and use simple words.
  • Speak gently and allow your loved one to respond.
  • Try to ask yes/no questions or offer choices instead of asking open-ended questions, which can be overwhelming.
• Limit napping to reduce getting days and nights mixed up. It’s a safety risk to have someone with Alzheimer’s up at night trying to move around while caregivers are sound asleep, unaware of the potential dangers.
  • Keep a quiet tone in the evening and minimize watching television.
• Incorporate activities and hobbies into the day.
  • Allow your loved one to help pick out their clothes, choose their towels at bath/shower time, help with meal prep/clean up, etc.
• Don’t argue with your loved one or correct them when their thoughts or feelings appear delusional. Instead, validate them and make sure they feel safe.
• Have an elopement plan. Even if your loved one isn’t currently wandering, the desire to do so can change at any moment.
  • Keep exterior doors locked and alarmed.
  • Notify neighbors and ask them to contact you or the police immediately if they see your loved one outside alone.
• Establish a safe environment.
  • Reduce clutter in the home: Avoid throw rugs and other hazards, such as extension cords, which may contribute to a fall.
  • Lock up cabinets, medicine, alcohol, cleaning supplies, knives, scissors, weapons, etc.
  • Keep matches and lighters out of reach, and consider safety proofing your stove.
  • Remove locks from bathroom and bedroom doors to prevent being locked inside a room you can’t access.
• Take advantage of adult day care centers or even a skilled nursing care center to provide respite care and engaging, social activities for your loved one while giving yourself a needed break.

For additional resources on caregiving, visit https://www.alz.org/abam/overview.asp or schedule an appointment with your loved one’s healthcare provider to learn about local support available in your area.