Caring for Those With Alzheimer's Disease]

The Senior Adviser

Caring For Those With Alzheimer’s Disease

Roughly 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, and often times the people caring for them are unpaid family members.  Naturally, the more informed caregivers are about this debilitating condition, the better both the patient and family will fare.

Since Alzheimer’s disease is an illness that affects so many lives, let’s consider some of the challenges that those with Alzheimer’s face and how their caregivers can help them.  

Memory Loss.  Memory impairment is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Damaged brain cells can result in memory deficits and other behaviors that are disheartening for patients and their families. It’s important for caregivers to remind themselves that people with Alzheimer’s have little control over the disease. In addition to educating themselves about the illness, family caregivers are well advised to participate in support groups with people who are in similar situations.      

Anger and/or Hostility.  It sometimes happens that good-natured individuals become argumentative or aggressive.  From a caregiver’s perspective, managing these situations can be overwhelming.  So what can be done?  First and foremost, do not take the behavior to heart.  This condition is mentally incapacitating, it is not personal.  Secondly, try to limit the situations that could lead to frustration.  For example, if your loved one becomes agitated when he or she hears the doorbell, then make a request that visitors knock instead of ring.  In other words, circumvent events that elicit an unfavorable response.      

Inappropriate Behavior.  Individuals who were once accustomed to proper social graces can demonstrate less-than-appropriate behavior.  Naturally, if the occasion occurs in public, it can be uncomfortable.  For example, if you and your aunt are dining in a popular restaurant and she begins to play with her teeth, time may seem to stop.  Still, there are tricks to try that could help thwart the action.  One thought?  Consider tucking photos in your pocket or purse and retrieve them for just such an occasion.  Your aunt’s focus might change, and reminiscing about old times could actually be fun.  Another idea?  Suggest that the two of you take a walk.  As you do so, point out the interesting décor along the way.  It may sound simplistic, but unpleasant behaviors can transform to more suitable actions with a little creativity. 

Poor Appetite.  Finicky pickers and even robust eaters, sometimes lose their appetite when they have Alzheimer’s. Naturally, if your loved one eschews all food, the doctor should promptly be notified.  However, if the problem is sporadic, then there are certain strategies that might help.  For example, if the radio tends to sidetrack Uncle Henry’s attention, turn it off when meals are being served; there will be one less distraction.  Another possibility is to prepare meals that are easy to eat.  Perhaps steak or chicken have become too difficult to chew.  Softer choices like fish, cooked vegetables, stews, or finger foods may work better.    

Wandering.  Leaving the premises unannounced is not uncommon with different types of dementia.  There are, however, a number of ways to address this potential danger. One  suggestion?  Schedule activities throughout the day (e.g., crafts, hobbies, television time) so your loved one remains occupied.  This could have a dual benefit, for it may also enhance sleeping patterns.  In addition, remain alert for wandering cues.  For instance, should your mom become restless when watching action movies, consider choosing more placid selections.  

Caregivers are crucial to Alzheimer's patients.  They are so critical, it is important to keep in mind that they also need understanding and assistance.  So, if you know someone who is in a caregiver role, consider offering him or her a helping hand.  Chances are your kindness will be appreciated.           

 Ross Capobianco is president of Home Instead Senior Care — a provider of home care services to seniors living north of Boston. He can be reached at 781-662-2273 or bostonnorth@homeinstead.com.