Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article. |
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness Month, and at Remedy Cares, we recognize the challenges faced by those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. This article provides practical tips and strategies to help maintain a healthy and active lifestyle for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, emphasizing the importance of nutritious food and suitable activities. We also highlight the importance of self-care for caregivers, offering guidance through these difficulties.
How to keep healthy and active lifestyle for parents with Alzheimer’s
Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle is essential for everyone, particularly for those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. As the disease advances, ensuring that the person eats nutritious foods and stays active can become increasingly difficult.
As the disease progresses, finding suitable activities and nutritious food options becomes increasingly important.
It's beneficial to engage the person in activities they enjoy, such as household chores, cooking, gentle exercise, or gardening, adjusted to their abilities. Initiating activities together can spark interest and make them more enjoyable. Incorporating music can also enhance motivation during exercises.
It's advisable to break activities into short sessions and take daily walks together, benefiting both the person with Alzheimer's and their caregiver.
Choosing easy-to-prepare healthy foods and offering meal choices can also support their overall well-being. Safety precautions, such as wearing identification during walks, are essential to ensure their security while remaining active.
8 tips on how to talk with Alzheimer’s parent
Be Patient, They Need Your Support
Alzheimer's can cause confusion and memory loss. Patience is crucial as they may take longer to process information or respond. Offer reassurance and avoid rushing them.
Avoid Criticizing
Criticism can be distressing and confusing for someone with Alzheimer's. Instead of pointing out mistakes or shortcomings, focus on positive reinforcement and supportive guidance.
Repeat Information or Questions as Needed
Memory lapses are common. Repeating information or questions calmly and clearly helps reinforce understanding without causing frustration.
Avoid Confusing and Vague Statements
Clear, straightforward communication is essential. Use simple sentences and avoid complex explanations or ambiguous language that can cause confusion.
Treat the Person with Dignity and Respect
Maintain their dignity by speaking directly to them, rather than around them. Respect their opinions and involve them in decisions whenever possible.
Encourage a Two-Way Conversation for as Long as Possible
Engage in meaningful conversations that allow them to express themselves. Even if their responses are limited, listening attentively shows respect and fosters connection.
Patiently Wait for a Response and Listen
Allow them time to process and respond. Avoid interrupting or finishing their sentences. Listening actively helps build trust and encourages communication.
Use Written Notes and Reminders
Visual aids such as notes, calendars, and lists can aid memory and reinforce important information. Keep these simple and accessible.
Recommended Read: How to Discuss Senior Living Options with Elderly Parents |
How to keep the living space safe for a parent with Alzheimer’s
Ensuring the safety of a parent with Alzheimer’s disease at home involves proactive measures to create a secure environment.
As a caregiver, you can enhance their independence while minimizing risks by implementing several safety modifications.
Install handrails on stairs, add carpet or safety grip strips, or use brightly colored tape to mark the edges of steps for better visibility.
Safeguard unused electrical outlets with safety plugs and use latches on cabinet doors.
Keep living spaces clear by removing small rugs, electrical cords, and other potential tripping hazards.
Ensure all areas, both indoors and outdoors, are well-lit.
Avoid using curtains and rugs with complex patterns that might cause confusion, and securely store or remove hazardous cleaning and household products.
These practical steps can significantly contribute to a safer living environment for your loved one. However, there may be other issues that affect your parent with Alzheimer’s. Stay attentive to these nuances and adjust the living space accordingly.
Don’t forget about yourself: Advice for caregivers
According to the CDC, family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementias face a higher risk of anxiety, depression, and a decline in their quality of life compared to those caring for people with other conditions.
Caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients typically provide care for longer durations—79% compared to 66% for other conditions. Over half of these caregivers have been providing care for four years or more, and more than six in ten expect to continue their caregiving responsibilities for the next five years. This extended commitment can be overwhelming, highlighting the importance of seeking professional caregiving help to ensure both the caregiver’s and the patient's well-being.
Seek for professional help: How can Remedy Cares help to take care of your parents with Alzheimer’s?
Experience compassionate care with our expert caregiving team at Remedy, the premier home caregiving agency in Los Angeles.
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s requires specialized attention and understanding. Our compassionate caregivers are trained to provide personal care and hygiene assistance, ensuring comfort and dignity for your loved one. We maintain a clean and safe living environment through light housekeeping, removing potential hazards that could confuse or endanger someone with Alzheimer’s.
Daily routines can be challenging for those with Alzheimer’s, but our caregivers offer reliable support with errands and transportation, ensuring your loved one can attend appointments and engage in social activities safely. Connection and companionship are at the heart of our services. Our caregivers engage in meaningful activities and conversations, providing essential social interaction that enriches daily life.
Call us now at 800-554-8575 to experience the difference of compassionate, skilled caregiving tailored to the unique needs of Alzheimer’s care.
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