If you are caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease, it’s important to create a stress-free home environment. As the disease progresses, your loved one will rely heavily on you and home care services—this lack of independence can leave them feeling helpless and agitated.

But luckily, there are certain Alzheimer’s care tips that can help your family member maintain a high-quality life:

• Create a Routine: To help make daily tasks easier for your loved one, develop a consistent routine. Alzheimer’s patients are the happiest and most capable when they have simple tasks that don’t challenge them too much. For example, consider setting up a schedule where they bathe at the same time every day. You can also do things like go for a walk or prepare a meal together at a time during the day when they are usually the most alert. 

• Be Respectful: When speaking with your Alzheimer’s patient, make sure you’re talking in a calm, gentle tone. As the disease progresses, you’ll want to opt for simple language. Just make sure you avoid baby talk—that will only make the individual feel helpless and disrespected.

• Be Sensitive to Concerns: Prevent your loved one from becoming distressed by being sensitive to their concerns and struggles. For example, if the loved one asks where a pet who died years ago went, don’t get mad or annoyed. Be gentle and patient while you explain the circumstances. 

• Promote Independence: Provide your loved one with the opportunity to be independent when it’s appropriate. They may still be able to dress themselves every day, or help with simple gardening tasks such as weeding or planting seeds.

• Expect Longer Wait Times: As part of Alzheimer’s care, schedule more time in advance to give them the opportunity to complete tasks without feeling rushed. It often takes patients longer to complete activities because numerous breaks are needed. Practice patience—never hurry the person, as it could easily result in confusion, anger, or sadness.

Work with the compassionate caregivers at Visiting Angels in Toms River, NJ, to provide your loved one with well-rounded Alzheimer’s care. The premier home care service provides outstanding senior care, including housekeeping, meal prep, and companionship. Call Visiting Angels Toms River today at (732) 240-1050 or visit the website to learn more about their Alzheimer’s care services. Like the home care service on Facebook for more great senior care tips.