Alzheimer's Awareness Month and Tips for the Caregiver

June is National Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. I almost forgot about this important event about such a devastating illness.

Nearly seven million Americans are affected by this disease. Onset can begin as early as 45. Changes in the brain may begin twenty years previous to symptom awareness. The Alzheimer’s Association website is full of helpful information for those who are suffering from forgetfulness and memory problems.

The caregiver may need help as well. The following is an excerpt from my book Coping Skills for Caregivers.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease is commonly described as the long good-bye. Individuals with Alzheimer’s may live as long as seven to twenty years following the diagnosis. Progression of the disease varies.

As Baby Boomers continue to age it is estimated that one out of ten persons 65 years and over will have the devastating disease. Caregivers bear the brunt of a heavy burden, day in and day out.

Generally, the disease is divided into four stages, although symptoms may overlap.

Early Stage

Mild, short term memory loss and forgetfulness occur. Inability to find the correct word is common. Repeating the same thing over and over and the inability to remember the answers to questions just answered minutes previous. Changes in judgement may occur. Decline may be slow.

Mild Stage

Individuals may need some direction in order to carry out the activities of daily living. A change in personality and flat emotional responses may be noticed.

Moderate Stage

The disease progression is characterized by the inability to choose the correct clothing for the season or match colors. The ability to cook or remember their own address may be lost. Simple activities such as looking at photos or listening to music are beneficial.

Final Stage

Full-time care may be required. Assistance with all activities of daily living becomes necessary. Help with bathing, toileting, eating become the norm. Vocabulary is limited to a few words. Individuals may need help eating or have food placed in front of them. The process of eating becomes prolonged. Food may eventually need to be put in the blender for ease of swallowing.

Sundowning Syndrome

Some individuals experience Sundowning Syndrome, although many do not. Symptoms include increased agitation, confusion, or anxiety in the late afternoon or evening hours. Some individuals hallucinate or pace.

The cause of Sundowners is unknown. Diminished light seems to trigger symptoms.

Provide adequate light to limit shadows. Keep a strict routine. Any change in routine can trigger agitation or confusion. Even changing caregivers for a respite may increase symptoms. People with Alzheimer’s become dependent on their caregivers.

Tips for the Caregiver

Keep it simple

Approach daily life in simple slow motion. Cognition is slow, so hurry may upset or confuse your loved one. The daily life focus is in the now. This moment. Lower your expectations.

Try to keep your loved one as independent as possible for as long as possible. For instance, with grooming you may have to show them the toothbrush, then give step-by-step instructions on tooth brushing. Avoid giving lengthy instructions or too many steps at a time. Too much information adds to confusion.

Allow them to dress themselves if possible. The ability to choose matching outfits may be beyond their capability. Lay their clothes out or give them one item at a time to put on.

Simplify meals. Limit food choices. Try one or two items on a plate. Small frequent meals may be a good strategy. If weight loss occurs try protein drinks such as Ensure or Boost.

Assisting your loved one with bathing may become necessary. One individual I took care of while a Hospice nurse refused to bathe. The family was unable to figure out why. Turns out he was afraid of falling. A shower chair, a hand-held shower head and grab bars helped him feel secure. With time he trusted the nurse’s aid to help with his shower.

The noise of the television and television content may increase confusion. They may have trouble distinguishing reality from fantasy. They may think what is happening on the news is happening to them.

Involve your loved one in simple chores. Folding laundry, sweeping or dusting may occupy their mind for a short time and improve self-esteem. Keep expectations of perfection out of the picture.

Engage your loved one by singing popular songs from their generation. One individual loved to sing “You are my Sunshine.” She was otherwise nonverbal.

Long Term Care

Not everyone is mentally equipped to deal with the devastating decline seen with Alzheimer’s disease. Caregivers may opt for the outside help of a memory unit or nursing home. These decisions are individual to each person and circumstance. One deterring factor to nursing homes is price. Not all individuals can afford the cost of long-term care.

Some individuals shun the idea of long-term care. If you fall into this category elicit the help of Home Health or Hospice.

Placement of your loved one into a facility under any circumstance is a difficult, heart-wrenching decision. When I conceded to this decision for my dad, my emotions were flooded with grief, despair, uncertainty and guilt. The difficult decision left me emotionally destitute. On the other hand, I knew that I could no longer take care of him.

Scripture

“Even to your old age I am He, and even to your advanced old age I will carry you! I have made you, and I will carry you; Be assured I will carry you and I will save you.” (Isaiah 46:4 AMP).

Prayer

Father,

Bless each caregiver and their loved ones who are facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia. Provide patience, and longsuffering during this marathon of care. Comfort the heart of grief and provide joy in the moments that pass. Help us to see life through your eyes: divine, sacred, a gift from you. Always. Amen.

Another helpful resource. Sometimes they Forget by RJ Thesman, available on Amazon.