Caring for Someone with Alzheimer's or Dementia

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. It’s an irreversible, degenerative disorder that destroys brain cells, causing a loss of memory, understanding and judgement. While Alzheimer's usually affects people over the age of 65, it’s not a normal part of the aging process. Unfortunately, the cause of Alzheimer's is not known, and there is no cure.

The Three Stages of Alzheimer's Disease

The early stage. In this stage, symptoms can include forgetfulness, trouble understanding conversations or remembering words. There may also be changes in mood, behavior or physical activity.

The middle stage. In this stage, the illness causes a progressive decline in the person's mental and physical capacity. People become increasingly confused, forgetful, disoriented, and may have trouble recognizing family and friends. The person may wander or need assistance with simple tasks, such as bathing and dressing.

The late stage. In this stage, the person may be unable to communicate or care for him or herself. They can have difficulty eating, and may lose control of bodily functions.

Caring for Those with Alzheimer's and Dementia

If you’re caring for a spouse or parent with dementia or Alzheimer's, you're not alone. Half of those with dementia are cared for at home and receive informal care from their wives or adult daughters. In addition to women providing the most amount of in-home care, more women than ever before are also juggling their caregiving responsibilities while working and caring for their own children.

Becoming a Caregiver

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's, it can be a devastating discovery. Your loved one's initial confusion and forgetfulness can be challenging. Watching his or her memory and physical capabilities slip away will be distressing. Finally, realizing that you and this person are becoming strangers to one another may cause heartache.

It’s important that you and others who provide care to your loved one do not lose sight of the person they once were. No matter what changes the disease inflicts, this person is still entitled to his or her dignity and respect. Your loved one still needs compassion, friendship and a sense of belonging.

What Caregivers Can Expect

As noted earlier, this is a progressive disease that causes gradual changes to the person's mental and physical state. Initially, it’s important to focus on the person's abilities rather than what has been lost. Helping your loved one remain as independent as possible, as long as it’s safe, will help maintain their dignity and sense of control.

This positive attitude needs to be balanced with a constant vigilance for signs that further assistance is needed. Here are a few cautions to watch for, even in the early stages of the disease:

Alcohol. Even in small amounts, it can worsen the confusion caused by Alzheimer's.

Medication mix-ups. Confusion and memory lapses can cause those with Alzheimer's to take too much or too little medication, so be sure to supervise.

Driving. Even in the early stages of the disease, driving may be unsafe. There is potential for confusion, slow response and getting lost.

Home safety. Watch for possible hazards in your home, such as sharp objects or dangerous chemicals. Be sure smoke detectors are working and consider installing support bars in showers and beside toilets.

Changing and Challenging Behavior

While everyone's experience is unique, there are certain behaviors that are common among Alzheimer's sufferers, including:

Confusion or trouble understanding conversations or simple tasks
Wandering or getting lost

Suspicion or delusions, and thinking that possessions have been stolen or hidden
Aggression
Repetitive activity, including tapping fingers, repeating words, etc.
Sexual behavior, such as removing clothing, making sexual advances, etc.

Stages of Care

At the onset of the disease, the person with Alzheimer's may only need support and monitoring. Experts suggest that the best way to help is to develop simple routines for day-to-day living and to provide gentle reminders. For example, a note on the fridge reminding your loved one to eat, laying clothes out or placing a toothbrush on the bathroom counter.

As the disease progresses, the person's mental and physical functioning will decline, resulting in the need for constant supervision and assistance. At this stage, you'll need to seek some help either in the home or through an outside facility. Things to consider include:

Welcome to your Beneficiary Assistance Program.

Take the first step towards change

Why members use the program

Always confidential

Help you need

Help how you want

Available anytime, anywhere

Pick your support

No cost

Caring for Someone with Alzheimer's or Dementia

Related Articles

Related Articles

Tips when caring for someone with Alzheimer’s

Supporting a loved one with Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's - an inspirational journey

Fading memories: an absent mind or warning signs?

Caring for Someone with Alzheimer's or Dementia

Share:

Related Articles

Processing