A Caregiver's Guide To Alzheimer’s and Dementia
- Gianna Hunter
- Sep 6
- 4 min read
Caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia can present challenging moments. However, having the right resources to address these situations can make a significant difference. Whether you are new to caregiving or just looking for some reminders, it is essential to understand the disease, the changes in behavior you might observe, and what to expect in the later stages.
This guide is here to support you by providing valuable information and answers to your questions, equipping you with the knowledge you can rely on each day.
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Dementia is a broad term used to define the decline of a person’s cognitive function, such as problems with memory or reasoning, that make it difficult to complete daily tasks. Alzheimer’s, which is the most common form of dementia, affects mental capacity in a similar way. As the disease progresses, symptoms that accompany it worsen with time. Alzheimer's often shows up within later stages of life, but there are some instances where early-onset Alzheimer’s can occur within individuals who are 65 years old or younger.
While there currently isn’t any cure for Alzheimer's or Dementia, there are ways to manage the progression of the disease. By recognizing symptoms early on, making healthy lifestyle changes, and offering support, caregivers can provide a sense of comfort and make a huge difference in improving the lives of affected individuals.
Navigating Common Behaviors
When your loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia, it can be disheartening to notice changes in their behavior. These shifts can feel unusually different from the person you once knew. It’s natural to feel mixed emotions towards these changes, yet these behaviors are often a symptom of the changes that are occurring within their brain.
As a caregiver, it is important to recognize that you are responsible for your loved one's well-being. If you notice any of these behaviors present in your loved one, it's best to navigate these challenges through compassion and understanding. By doing so, you can make a huge difference in your caregiving experience and positively impact your relationship with them.
Here are some common behaviors you may notice and how you can respond:
Repetition
As memory declines, short-term memory loss can make it difficult to retain information. This issue can impact everyday tasks or conversations , resulting in repetitive actions, frustration, and confusion.
What you can do: Instead of correcting repetitive behaviors, respond calmly and redirect the situation by reassuring them and offering a distraction. This can involve providing visual aids or bringing up an alternative topic.
Example: If a person continues to ask what time it is, keep a clock visible and show them the time. Respond by saying: “It’s 8 AM. I am about to finish some chores. Would you like to help me fold the laundry?”
Agitation
When a person becomes more irritable and responds with physical or verbal aggression, it often indicates discomfort caused by environmental factors or other triggers like pain or fatigue.
What you can do: When dealing with agitation or aggression, keep calm and offer your understanding. Try to identify any triggers that may lead to these feelings, such as time, clutter, etc.
Example: If a person with dementia continues to feel irritated by clutter or messes, it may be helpful to take steps to declutter your home to create a calmer atmosphere that may help to reduce anxiety and decrease negative emotions.
Wandering
Confusion or disorientation can result in wandering, where an individual unintentionally roams away from a familiar environment without being aware of their surroundings.
What you can do: Disconnection from the environment can lead to various risks, including injury or the possibility of getting lost. To help ensure your home is safe, consider installing cameras, locking doors, and informing those around you, such as your neighbors, about the potential for wandering. Ask them to stay alert if wandering is likely.
Paranoia
As memory and cognitive abilities decline, paranoia can manifest as anything from questioning reality to hallucinations or delusions.
What you can do: Disagreeing or arguing with someone who is experiencing paranoia can increase their agitation and anxiety. Instead, it's better to reassure them by acknowledging their feelings and gently redirecting the conversation. In more serious situations that could lead to harm for you or your loved ones, it’s important to seek professional help from a doctor or other healthcare specialist.
Example: If a person is concerned that their clothes or other items are missing, try to keep their belongings in a visible area moving forward to reduce confusion. You can reassure them by saying, “I understand why you feel this way. It can be upsetting. I want to assure you that all your belongings are safe.”
Sundowning
Sundowning is a common effect that can cause fatigue, agitation, or other mood changes in the late afternoon or evening.
What you can do: Maintaining a consistent routine can help reduce sundowning. Engaging in calming activities, such as listening to music or using aromatherapy, can help alleviate anxiety and confusion while promoting relaxation and a sense of calm.
What to Expect in Later Stages
There are generally three stages to Alzheimer's: early, middle, and late. As the disease progresses, symptoms and behaviors become more frequent and severe, and full-time care is often needed in the final stages.
Signs of Late-Stage Dementia
Frequent and severe memory loss or recognition
Weight loss
Increased difficulty with motor abilities (walking, writing, swallowing, or speech)
Inability to eat, get dressed, or use the bathroom on their own
What You Can Do as a Caregiver
Offer your support: It's important to ensure their comfort by keeping their surroundings calm and familiar
Assist with daily needs: Show understanding and compassion as you ensure that their daily needs are lovingly met, including meals, hygiene, and their overall comfort.
Consider hospice care: Care professionals can be a huge source of support during this difficult time. Their assistance can help ease the difficulties for both your loved one and yourself.
Comments