Finding out that a loved one has an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be scary, but the more informed you are about the disease and how to provide care, the more comfortable your loved one will be. Since the disease primarily affects the brain, Alzheimer’s care can be especially challenging and often requires a devoted caregiver. Learn more about the condition to prepare for what’s ahead. 

When Does Someone With Alzheimer's Need Special Care?

As the disease progresses, individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s will be less able to care for themselves. You can expect to see significant memory loss, confusion about basic tasks, like getting dressed or cooking, trouble understanding where they are or what time it is, as well as difficulty communicating. These limitations make having a devoted caregiver to manage your loved one’s day to day life especially helpful. 

What Type of Care Is Required?

Caregivers have many responsibilities. They will help the patient remember essentials, such as taking their medicine, eating meals, bathing, and practicing hygiene. Caregivers will also help individuals move around the house while protecting them against a fall or injury. They also assist in procuring food, supplies, and facilitating visits with family. 

How Can Families Help?

While having a professional caregiver is an incredible source of assistance, the family will still have a large role to play in caring for their loved one with Alzheimer’s.

When spending time with your loved one, focus on being patient. Never show frustration or anger since those with Alzheimer’s can be very sensitive to emotion even if they don’t always understand the conversation. Try to be as flexible as possible when seeing your relative. For example, come back later if they’re not feeling well or watch a different TV show if they don’t like what’s on.

Speak slowly and clearly to give them the best possible chance of understanding you. Emphasize one thing at a time and try to use their name often. Yes or no questions are more effective than open-ended ones. Above all, give them your love — even when they can’t understand everything, expressing how you feel will go a long way.

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s, contact the caregivers at Deer Valley Home Health in Berkeley, St. Charles, and St. Louis, MO. These home health experts have been working with Alzheimer’s patients since 2005 and offer tremendous compassion as well as skilled treatment. If you have questions, call (314) 355-3679. Learn more about the home health team by visiting their website.