After a bit of a reprieve from caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's, I found myself back at it this week. I was happy to be with my loved one again as his temperament is exceptionally good as is his interest in many topics. We had some good times together.
The Alzheimer's however presents an emotional challenge as it's difficult to witness a loved one change and forget much of what he has known throughout his life. It's difficult to know exactly how to handle the many new situations that occur due to extensive memory loss. These difficulties create strong emotions and exhaustion potentially leading to some unhealthy outcomes such as loss of sleep, overeating for comfort, less than positive expressions and more.
As I consider this, I realize that it's good to be aware of the impact Alzheimer's has on caregivers as well as the person who has the disease. It's also good to prepare for the work you do with those with Alzheimer's so your caregiving doesn't result in negative behaviors that upset other parts of your life.
Keep it simple
At times, some accuse me of overdoing it with my loved one who has Alzheimer's. Instead, it's better to slow it down and prepare yourself for the what can seem like a very slow pace during the caregiving times.
Speak slowly and carefully
Too much, too fast language can result in confusion with a person at the later stages of Alzheimer's, and this confusion can create a more challenging caregiving routine. So it's best to speak slowly using words and phrases that are comfortable for the person with Alzheimer's.
Expect to get tired
Caregiving is tough work so it's best to plan to rest after your caregiving sessions.
Healthy foods and healthy routines matter
Stay away from the unhealthy foods and any unhealthy routines while caring for a person with Alzheimer's because the negative results of eating unhealthy foods and engaging in unhealthy activities will only magnify when working with the challenges a person with Alzheimer's can present.
Engage in positive activities together
Find activities that are positive for you and for your loved one with Alzheimer's. Those activities will change over time as the Alzheimer's disease becomes more intense. For example, activities that were enjoyable last year are not as enjoyable this year so I have to find some new activities that work to make both of us happy.
Know your limits, but do what you can
None of us can be all things to others, but we can contribute. It's good to know what you're capable of doing, and what you can't do or what you need help with. Don't let your limits, however, prevent you from doing what you can with loved ones with Alzheimer's.
