Caring for senior citizens who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease presents daily challenges, both for the senior and the caregiver. In many ways, caring for an Alzheimer’s patient is similar to child care, depending on the stage of the disease and the personality of the patient. This type of care is even more challenging in a home setting. In home care of Alzheimer’s patients may be preferable in order to keep the senior in a familiar, routine environment, but caregivers may be challenged to meet the very specialized needs that arise in this setting. Particular areas that need to be considered include: providing for personal care, establishing daily activities, addressing safety issues, and seeking caregiver support.
Personal Care Tips
The simple daily routines that most people take for granted can be extremely daunting for seniors with Alzheimer’s. Caregivers can follow some simple steps to make these necessary tasks easier for caregiver and patient:
- Bathing—planning in advance for a bath can simplify the process and make the senior more comfortable in what is sometimes a frightening activity. Caregivers should remain calm and always be gentle and respectful. Schedule baths for the time of day that is most relaxed for the senior, and stick to the routine. Have the bath drawn, the temperature tested, and all needed supplies—soap, shampoo, towels, robe—in place prior to bringing the senior into the bathroom. Make every effort to limit falling risks by installing safety bars, non-slip mats, and using a shower bench if needed. Remember to talk the senior through each step and encourage him or her to perform some steps when possible. Finally, consider substituting a sponge bath for a full bath or shower every day.
- Dressing—have comfortable, easy-on-and-off clothing laid out in advance. Schedule dressing for the same time each day and stay with the routine. Choose elastic waists over zippers and pullovers over buttons. Provide a few choices and allow the senior to perform as many steps as possible in the process. Be aware of clothing that may bind, pinch, or be painful for him, as he may not be able express his discomfort with the clothing. Lay clothing items out in the order that they should be put on, always remain calm and patient, and provide clear instructions.
- Bowel and bladder control—as Alzheimer’s progresses, incontinence is likely to become yet another issue to deal with. If so, a doctor should be consulted to rule out other potential medical causes. This can be an embarrassing and upsetting problem, and should be dealt with in a calm, compassionate manner by caregivers. Find ways to anticipate the senior’s urge to go to the bathroom, by picking up on signals like fidgeting or pulling at clothing. It may also be helpful to develop a routine for going to the bathroom (if the senior asks to go, it may be too late), and to stick to it as closely as possible. If accidents occur during the night, it may be a good idea to restrict nighttime fluids, especially drinks containing caffeine. Accidents will occur, both day and night, so caregivers must remember to be understanding and considerate.
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