Common Problems when Caring for a Parent with Alzheimer’s
Senior Care in Anderson OH: Common Problems when Caring for a Parent with Alzheimer’s
Currently, more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. One in ten people over the age of 64 have this disease that robs you of memory and reason. Those that care for them are blessed with breathtakingly beautiful moments and heartbreakingly unbearable ones. These are the common problems associated with those that care for parents and loved ones with Alzheimer’s.
Dressing
Eventually, dressing usually becomes difficult for those with Alzheimer’s. Coordination wanes along with memory on how to perform daily tasks. Choose clothes that are easy to get on and off as well as one’s that slip on instead of requiring buttons or zippers. Keep choices to a minimum and remove dirty clothing from their room so that they will not be tempted to wear it. Arguing or trying to convince them of a particular action to take is futile and does little except to agitate.
Verbal Outbursts and Anxiety
Anxiety is a common symptom of this disease. It can result in verbal expressions of anger. Try not to take it personally. Often what they need is consoling and understanding and confirmation that you are there for them and that everything is all right. Remaining calm can be a challenge, but a worthy one. Have distraction devices on hand for moments such as this. They may include their favorite board game, snack, book, movie or activity such as a walk through the neighborhood or gardening.
Hallucinations and Delusions
These are common occurrences among those with Alzheimer’s, particularly in the mid- to late-stages. They are in response to the changes going on in their brain and result in seeing and hearing things that aren’t really there as well as believing they are being followed or that someone stole something from them. Again, stay calm and reassure them. It does no good telling that that what they see, hear, or think is irrelevant and incorrect. Just let them know that you are there to support and care for them. Take note if a hallucination or delusion is reoccurring. It could be that the shadows brought on by dusk make a face in the curtain or the fan that goes on intermittently sounds like a voice. By turning on the lights or turning off the fan you can resolve some of the disturbances your parent is facing.
Shadowing
Shadowing is evident with a person who has dementia when they follow and imitate their caregiver or constantly talk to them and ask questions. It often occurs later in the day when fatigue has set in. Again, consoling and distraction seem to be the techniques that work best to resolve this situation.
Senior Care Provider
It’s evident from these common problems that caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s requires patience and a calm and focused demeanor. Even the most saint-like of people cannot keep giving 24/7 without replenishment. Consider obtaining the services of a senior care provide a few days a week. Knowing your loved one is in the good and capable hands of those that have cared for countless seniors facing this disease, will give you the ability to relax and rejuvenate, making you all that better as a caregiver in the days ahead.
If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Anderson, OH, please contact the caring staff at Queen City Elder Care today. Serving Cincinnati and Surrounding Communities. Call Us Today (513) 510-4410.
Resources
http://safe.uchicago.edu/files/2013/04/Fact-Sheet-Caregivers-Guide-to-Understanding-Dementia-Behaviors.pdf
Michele Vollmer is a visionary leader who is perpetually searching for ways to improve, so to remain at the leading edge of the home care industry.She has served in the healthcare industry since 1989, including pharmaceutical and home health sales, as well as hospice sales and sales management.
- Winter Safety Tips for Seniors - November 17, 2022
- Fun Fall Activities for Seniors In Cincinnati, OH - October 3, 2022
- National Senior Citizen Day - August 16, 2022