Not only is Alzheimer’s disease a challenging and distressing condition for the person diagnosed with it, but it is also a deeply upsetting situation for those who are close to them. Add to that the fact that seniors who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease frequently display a variety of problematic behaviors as the condition advances, and the emotions intensify even more. These behaviors, which could include agitation, hostility, roaming, delusions, and sleep difficulties, might make loved ones wonder where they can turn for help. The good news is that Alzheimer’s home care can provide support and resources to help loved ones manage behaviors, as well as offer a supportive shoulder to lean on when needed.
Alzheimer’s Care Offers Much-Needed Support
In spite of the fact that these behaviors are a common part of the Alzheimer’s disease journey, it is not necessary for loved ones to handle them on their own. However, many family members try to do just that and often end up emotionally and physically drained. Instead, loved ones can lean on Alzheimer’s home care to help, providing the support they need when they need it most. Wondering what support Alzheimer’s care can provide? Consider the following:
- Create a consistent routine: Seniors with Alzheimer’s frequently thrive in environments that are structured and consistent. Alzheimer’s care can work with loved ones to create routines that help alleviate behaviors because seniors know exactly what happens next. For instance, physical exercise might be scheduled right after breakfast, and reading time might come just before bedtime each day. When seniors have a routine to follow, they’re less likely to get confused and agitated, which leads to fewer behaviors.
- Create a calm environment: Alzheimer’s care can also help loved ones create a calm environment for seniors. This might include limiting the number of stimuli that can cause behavioral problems as well as using soft lighting, keeping the layout of the home the same, and more. This can be particularly helpful when sundowning is part of the equation.
- Focus on activity: While some moments require calm, that doesn’t mean that seniors’ days should be dull. Seniors—even those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s—should have the chance to enjoy meaningful activities that are suited to their talents and interests. By providing them with things to do, loved ones can eliminate boredom, which can be a major factor contributing to behavioral issues in Alzheimer’s disease.
- Educate: Alzheimer’s care can also provide a variety of resources and education for loved ones and seniors, helping them understand the facets of the disease, including how to handle difficult behaviors. They can work with loved ones to show them how to gently redirect seniors in an effort to de-escalate them. Also, they can help loved ones and seniors find support groups that offer them a safe space to process the impact of the disease.
- Identify triggers: Alzheimer’s care can also help loved ones identify triggers for the behaviors, which can lead to taking appropriate steps to avoid them.
Although Alzheimer’s disease behaviors can be difficult, loved ones don’t have to face them alone. They can rely on home care to not only assist them in understanding why the behaviors occur but also in creating an environment that may decrease them and support seniors in the best way possible.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Home Care in Fort Worth, TX, please contact the caring staff at Clear Path Home Care today at (817) 631-7710
Clear Path Home Care provides compassionate, high-quality home care in Bosque County, Hill County, Navarro County, Henderson County, Erath County, Somervell County, Johnson County, Ellis County, Parker County, Tarrant County, Dallas County, Kaufman County, Rains County, Hood County, VanZandt County, and Rockwall County in Texas.
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