Healthy & Safe Living with Alzheimer’s Disease

If you are caring for your loved one they are living with Alzheimer’s, you are well aware of the various challenges that can accompany day to day life. However, even with these challenges, it is possible for your loved one to lead a healthy, safe and fulfilled life. Below are three key strategies for healthy living with Alzheimer’s, presented by the Clearwater Home care experts at Home Care Assistance.

1. Consistency – The single most important thing to healthy living for an Alzheimer’s patient is to have a set schedule for each day. Meals, for instance, should be served around the same time every day and if possible, Alzheimer’s patients should also wake up and go to bed around the same hour. A consistent schedule helps to provide your loved one with a sense of control and can cut reduce feelings of agitation, promoting his or her overall safety and security.
2. Simplicity – Providing care for seniors with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming, however remember to keep things as simple as possible. By having things organized and doing your best not to overcomplicate the situation, you can ensure the comfort of your loved one. For instance, lay out clothing for your loved one and try to avoid things like buttons or zippers that can make dressing more difficult. When preparing a meal, opt for more simple foods that can be easily picked up without having to use utensils. Also, consider labeling doors like the bathroom, kitchen and their bedroom to make navigating the home easier, especially as the disease progresses. Simple changes can go a long way in helping your loved one to maintain as much independence as possible.
3. Forethought – Becoming familiar with the disease and its symptoms can help you plan for the future. For instance, as needs become more complex, your loved one may begin to wander. Keep the home free of clutter by removing trip hazards and implement grab bars near stairs, in the bathroom and the bedroom for additional safety. You may also want to consider extra locks to ensure your loved one remains in the home, safely, at all times. Maximize safety by getting help from a professional caregiver. While 24/7 live-in care is a great option for seniors with Alzheimer’s, hourly home care in Clearwater can also be beneficial to fill in care gaps and ensure consistency of care when you need a break or have to attend to family or job obligations.

Implementing the above strategies can help you manage the challenges your loved one faces as they go through each stage of Alzheimer’s. For more information about how to care for a senior with Alzheimer’s, contact Home Care Assistance of Tampa Bay today. Our highly trained and compassionate caregivers specialize in senior Alzheimer’s and memory care and have been trained in our exclusive Cognitive Therapeutics Method which promotes cognitive vitality, brain health and overall quality of life. Call 727-330-7862 to speak with a Care Manager and learn more about our advanced in-home Alzheimer’s care plans.