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Receiving the diagnosis of Alzheimer's
can be a devastating occurrence for both the person affected and his/her
family. It is important to have good and open communication with your doctor.
He/she can be an invaluable support for all involved.
During the early stage of Alzheimer's,
which may last for years, there may be mild changes in thinking and learning
abilities. Generally speaking, the person can and should participate in the
activities of daily living, and be encouraged to live as independently as possible.
Feeling "in control" can be good for the person's emotional
well-being.
Families caring for their loved one at
this stage are really in a supporting role, assisting when needed to perform
certain tasks, such as keeping appointments, managing money, and help making
plans for the future. A daily routine should be maintained, as regular
schedules may make the person feel more secure.
The person should be encouraged to share
feelings, as he/she may be anxious, frustrated, or fearful of the future.
If the Alzheimer's patient lives alone, it is imperative that caregivers stay involved. Daily phone calls or visits can be a great emotional support, as well as helping to keep on top of potential problems that may occur or develop.
The safety of the person living alone is of paramount importance, and needs to be closely monitored by the caregiver. The Safe-T-elements Cooktop System is engineered to help prevent cooking fires and reduce the amount of electricity required to cook. The burners are retrofitted to existing electric coiled stoves and electronically control the temperature of the plate.
As the disease progresses, behaviors start to change. This can be very distressing for the person affected, as well as for the loved ones caring for them. Irritability, sleep changes, physical and verbal outbursts, and wandering may occur. As the ability to communicate decreases, the person may become repetitive and lose their train of thought. Dressing and grooming will start to become more challenging.
Eating regular and nutritious meals may
become problematic. If possible, meals should not be rushed and be taken in a
quiet area with little to no distractions. The person may have difficulty
handling utensils and can become overwhelmed with a variety of food
choices.
Forty percent of Alzheimer’s patients
experience significant weight loss. People with Alzheimer's are
not able to distinguish light colored food and drink on or in typically light
colored tableware. Researchers have noted a 24%
increase in food intake and 84% increase in liquid intake when eating and
drinking with tableware that offers a high contrast color. The Redware
Tableware Set provides
the human eye with a hue that is both more easily seen and likely to be high in
contrast to most foods.
While an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is
certainly anxiety ridden, it is important to remember that there is a large
network of support available for both the individual and their families. An excellent place to start looking for
information is the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada - www.alzheimers.ca/en. You will find valuable advice and a slew of
links that are sure to be advantageous in your quest for guidance.
