Lifestyle for People with Alzheimer’s Disease
People suffering from mild forms of Alzheimer’s disease are capable of living on their own with minimal supervision of their relatives and friends. At the stage when the patient is unable to perform certain tasks, closer supervision and help are required. Some patients who have no relatives or friends living nearby have the option of hiring a part-time aide; this person can remind the Alzheimer’s patient to pay their bills, take medications, and can also help with simple activities and household tasks.
For people with more serious forms and stages of Alzheimer’s, care is required round the clock. Such services are available, but they may seem costly to those with incomes lower than average. In case the patient needs constant care but can’t afford hiring a nurse for the whole day, there is the option of moving to a special facility. The cost is much lower if compared to the services of a private caregiver, and the patient can live on his or her own in a place with constant attention of trained medical personnel.
Alzheimer’s patients able to live independently and occasionally requiring some external help need to feel they are surrounded by understanding and friendly people. The relatives and friends of the person with Alzheimer’s should make sure there is a safe balance between independence and safety (for that purpose the place where this person lives may require some alterations).
It’s very important that people with Alzheimer’s disease keep physically and mentally fit for as long as it is possible.
• Daily physical exercise helps maximize body and mind functions and maintains a healthy weight. This can be as simple as a daily walk.
• The individual should engage in as much mental activity as he or she can handle. It is believed that mental activity can slow the progression of the disease. Puzzles, games, reading, and safe hobbies and crafts are good choices. These activities should ideally be interactive. They should be of an appropriate level of difficulty that the person does not become overly frustrated.
• Communication is very important for people with mild and intermediate forms of the disease, as it stimulates their speaking skills. You will probably be able to find some Alzheimer’s society or Alzheimer’s foundation in the place you live. There are regular meetings organized for people with similar problems.
Healthy diet and lifestyle play an important role in the well-being of the patient. They should get enough vegetables and fruit, protein (low-fat) and vitamins, and keep track of their weight. Malnutrition can cause worsening of the condition. It’s not recommended to smoke – firstly, because it may lead to a fire; secondly, because it’s very bad for health, as it decreases the amount of oxygen the brain gets.
It may be beneficial for the person providing care for an Alzheimer’s to join a support group, where they will be able to share their true feelings without the fear of being judged.
• The person may be frank and honest with the group members; he or she can count on understanding and sympathy.
• There is a great possibility to share one’s experience and get advice on Alzheimer’s care.
• Group brainstorming may be useful in finding solutions to specific problems and difficulties.
• The person taking care of an Alzheimer’s patient can be referred to additional resources to find relief.
• The group provides instant help and advice, as well as psychological support to the caregiver.
If you need additional information on such groups, you can contact the following agencies:
• Alzheimer's Association - (800) 272-3900
• National Alliance for Caregiving
• Family Caregiver Alliance, National Center on Caregiving - (800) 445-8106
• Eldercare Locator Service - (800) 677-1116
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