#WednesdayWisdom - Alzheimer's care

#WednesdayWisdom

1.  Alzheimer’s Care – Forgiveness is crucial

Alzheimer’s disease robs the brain of memories.  It can also display negative actions in a loved one that are not normal to their personality.  They may say things or do things that are harmful.  Always attempt to be in a forgiving mood, as they have almost no control over these things.

#WednesdayWisdom - Alzheimer's care

#WednesdayWisdom

2.  Alzheimer’s Care – Have an Adaptive Plan

Caregivers that are well experienced in the Alzheimer’s Disease process know that it’s very difficult to stick to regular plans.  I know that my experience taught me to have plans made depending on good or bad days.  I would cater to what I saw as most effective to brightening the mood.  If you’re easily upset by ruined plans, you may need to seek help (which is absolutely okay).

#WednesdayWisdom - Alzheimer's Care

#WednesdayWisdom

3.  Alzheimer’s Care – It’s not what’s said, but how they feel

At some stages of Alzheimer’s Disease, a sufferer may not make complete sense.  In my experience, it becomes an exercise in reading emotion over content.  If you cannot understand the words, or groupings of information they express, focus on how it’s being said.  You can read their needs on their emotions and actions.

#WednesdayWisdom - Alzheimer's Care

#WednesdayWisdom

4.  Alzheimer’s Care – Live in their world and have fun

Ideally, we’d like to make the best of a situation, but it can take a lot of energy.  An Alzheimer’s sufferer put a lot of energy in attempting to communicate.  The best practice is not to argue or correct if what they say or do is wrong, but rather re-direct or play along in a productive way.  You might not always toast your bread with a hair-dryer, but maybe you should on a Wednesday if your loved one finds it amusing.  Adapt with love and remain jovial and the difference will appear.

The Take-Away

Alzheimer’s Care can be the most difficult tasks a family member will do for their loved ones.  It can also be the most rewarding, depending on how you approach it.  It’s best to gain experience through training.  There are great local programs that will educate you on some of the pitfalls and tips for success.  I’ve found it best to remain optimistic, show visual love and use kind words, prepare for forgiveness, have fun and make multiple plans.  Alzheimer’s is scary and can be abundantly confusing, but you have the power to make the best out of any situation my letting go and focusing on the good.  Your loved one will notice and will enjoy time spent, if they remember you or not.  It’s still quality time when love is present!

If you or someone you care about suffers from Alzheimer’s Disease, you’re not alone.  Ask for help from family first, and seek expert advice.  If family lives too far or works too often, call us to schedule a No Obligation CAREConsult™ with a Love RightCare Service Representative.

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