Individuals with Alzheimer's disease progressively become less able to care for themselves. When first diagnosed a person may need only little help, but as the disease progresses caregivers may become fully responsible for the care of their loved one. Losing independence and privacy can be very difficult for the person with Alzheimer's. Caregivers must be aware of their loved one's reactions and fears to provide the best quality care they can.
Bathing can often be the most difficult personal-care activity that a caregiver will do. Due to the fact that it is a private matter, your loved one with Alzheimer's disease may feel threatened or invaded. They may in return act out and resist. Here are some helpful tips to assist with bathing your loved one with Alzheimer's disease:
- Make the bathroom safe
- Help the person feel in control
- Allow the person to be apart of the process
- Respect the person's dignity
- Prepare the bathroom in advance
- Be Gentle while bathing
- Be flexible
Managing proper care of your loved one's mouth and teeth can prevent many diseases and infections. Brushing another individuals teeth can often become difficult, especially a person with dementia. These individuals may forget how to properly brush their teeth or why exactly it is so important to do it daily. To help you provide quality dental care for your loved one Sollievo wishes to provide some tips:
- Give your loved one simple instructions
- Allow for your loved one to watch you brush your teeth first, so they can understand the process
- Keep up with annual trips to the dentist
- Monitor their daily oral care
Your loved one with Alzheimer's disease may experience incontinence and loss of bladder control. The individual may not remember where the bathroom is or the proper way to use a toilet. To help your loved one, use these tips:
- Create visible reminders where the restroom is located
- Encourage your loved one to use the restroom often
- Be supportive
- Monitor your loved ones incontinence
- Consider using proper incontinence products
Sollievo Helpful Hints:
- Be flexible
- Help the person stay independent
- Speak using short and simple words
- Encourage and praise your loved one
- Be patient and understanding
- Use simple instructions
- Watch for unspoken communication
- Consider new approaches
