When an elderly parent is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, some caregivers make the decision to care for their parent at home. This is a difficult and potentially overwhelming task. Each day brings new challenges as you cope with changing levels of ability and new patterns of behavior.
Tasks that were second nature in the past, such as dressing, bathing and eating become increasingly difficult to manage. On top of that, behaviors common in people with Alzheimer's, such as wandering and hallucinations, add to the responsibility of caring for an elderly parent with Alzheimer's.
Find an Adult Day Care Center »
Having a plan for getting through the day can help you cope. Many caregivers have found it helpful to use strategies for dealing with difficult behaviors and stressful situations. You will find that some of these tips work well for you, while others may not. The only way to find out is through trial and error. Each person with Alzheimer's is unique and will respond differently, and each person changes over the course of the disease.
Look for Patterns
Study your day to see if you can develop a routine that makes things go more smoothly. If there are times of day when the person with Alzheimer's is less confused or more cooperative, plan your routine to make the most of those moments. Keep in mind that the way the person functions may change from day to day, so try to be flexible and adapt your routine as needed.
Communication
Trying to communicate with a person who has Alzheimer's disease can be a challenge. Both understanding and being understood may be difficult. Here are some suggestions:
- Choose simple words and short sentences and use a gentle, calm tone of voice.
- Avoid talking to the person with Alzheimer's like a baby or talking about the person as if he or she weren't there.
- Minimize distractions and noise—such as the television or radio—to help the person focus on what you are saying.
- Make eye contact and call the person by name, making sure you have his or her attention before speaking.
- Allow enough time for a response. Be careful not to interrupt.
- If the person with Alzheimer's is struggling to find a word or communicate a thought, gently try to provide the word he or she is looking for.
- Try to frame questions and instructions in a positive way.
- Be open to the person's concerns, even if he or she is hard to understand.