Alzheimer Support for those affected and their families

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.

Supporting the "sandwiched" care giver

I continue to be impressed by the number of adult children who are THERE for their parents.  We always hear about how the elderly are sitting in retirement homes alone.  No visitors and certainly no family members dropping in. While I am not denying that this does occur, today I would like to defend those adult children who ARE visiting and caring for their parents.  Many among us are balancing corporate jobs, homework, after school activities and not to mention trying to keep the flame alive with our partner.  It seems to happen at the busiest time of our lives...suddenly, our parents really need us.

The most difficult thing to accept is that there is a role reversal that takes place when a parent's health begins to fail.  Our strong and powerful Dad is not so strong anymore...and Mom who used to love to entertain the whole family and then some...just can't do it anymore. While we are dealing with the changes in their physical/mental abilities, we long to have good 'ol Dad back and miss the mother/daughter connection we once had.   We find ourselves making decisions for them. We delicately prompt and guide them to change their ways, consider a more secure environment and perhaps suggest an adaptive product.  Although we know it will benefit them, it is often difficult convincing them.  Aging is not for the weak at heart!

I have met many adult children, with tears in their eyes, trying to do what is best for their parents.  They are often at a loss and are always overwhelmed by the "new normal".  While we cannot stop those we love from aging, I think we can be better at supporting each other during these difficult times.  Remember when we used to watch our girlfriend's kids just to give her a break...maybe we should think of ways to lend a hand while she needs time to visit her parents.  Better yet, offer to visit her parents with her.  She will be forever grateful