Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common forms of dementia that affects around 6.7 million senior adults in the US. Reports also show that 73% of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease are at least 75 years old.
Many senior adults worry about cognitive decline since age is the major risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.
Caring for someone with a neurodegenerative disease like Alzheimer’s disease can be very challenging but, in the end, a rewarding experience. However, it’s important to know the most effective caregiving tips from professional caregivers for the elderly to look after your loved one the right way and improve their quality of life.
If you’re looking for effective Alzheimer’s care tips for your elderly loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease, you’re at the right place.
Read on to learn how you can effectively care for Alzheimer’s patients.
What Exactly is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that is a type of dementia. Dementia is a term used to describe a range of conditions that impact thinking, memory, and behavior.
These sudden changes in brain functions can interfere with the individual’s everyday life and lead to personality and behavioral changes. Dementia and other diseases that cause cognitive impairment can happen due to a wide range of reasons, like brain injuries, age, or even genetics.
According to a report by the Alzheimer’s Association, many people with Alzheimer’s disease get diagnosed with the disease after the age of 65. When diagnosed early, the disease is called “early onset” or “younger onset” Alzheimer’s disease.
While currently, there isn’t any cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are certain treatments that help manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.
An individual with Alzheimer’s disease is prone to behavioral changes, memory loss, and delusions.
Alzheimer’s patients may lose patience very easily and will have difficulty memorizing things and making sound decisions. These people will also require assistance with their everyday activities and won’t be able to look after themselves.
The Difference Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia, but these two conditions are very different from each other.
Dementia is a broad term that is used to describe a group of conditions that impact cognitive functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is a specific disease that is characterized by the deposition of an abnormal protein in the brain. This protein, called beta-amyloid, starts to accumulate in the brain and starts to hinder normal brain function. This damage doesn’t just cause dysfunction in the brain but can also lead to neuron death that can spread to other brain cells, eventually causing irreparable death and dysfunction. The area of the brain where the protein accumulates is what determines each patient’s symptoms.
What can cause Alzheimer’s disease? There are a variety of causes, including brain trauma, pollution, diabetes, age, or the presence of certain genes.
Dementia, on the other hand, has multiple types and can cause a decline in thinking, reasoning skills, and thinking,
Here are some common types of dementia.
Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy body dementia is a rare type of dementia that occurs due to the accumulation of a protein called Lewy bodies in the brain. This protein can entirely change the brain function, resulting in changes in thinking, mood, and behavior. This dementia can also negatively affect movement-related activities.
Frontotemporal Disorders
Frontotemporal disorders are another rare type of dementia that affects individuals younger than 60. This form of dementia is associated with the buildup of an abnormal protein called TDP-43 that binds to the DNA and affects the function of tau brain proteins. This leads to problems with language and judgment. However, memory often stays preserved.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is when there is damage to the brain’s blood vessels, and the oxygen flow is interrupted. This can result in a buildup of strokes. The symptoms of vascular dementia depend on the part of the brain where the strokes occur.
Mixed Dementia
This form of dementia is a combination of any two forms of dementia. This dementia is associated with sudden brain changes due to abnormal protein accumulation. The most common type of this disease is Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.
Dementia also does not have a cure. Research shows that individuals who invest in their health, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly have a reduced risk of getting this disease.
Risk Factors For Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that causes the death of brain cells. A healthy brain is made up of billions of neurons that transmit chemical and electrical signals that help process and pass on information throughout the entire body.
With Alzheimer’s disease, these signals are disrupted, leading to the loss of cells and cell function. This also hinders the communication between the brain cells and the rest of the body.
Alzheimer’s disease occurs due to the accumulation of an abnormal protein that forms plaques in the brain and neurofibrillary tangles. The abnormal protein, or amyloid, forms because of the breakdown of its precursor.
Studies show that this protein precursor plays a vital role in directing nerve cell flow. As the abnormal form of this protein starts to clump together in the brain, it gathers between the neurons and interferes with normal cell function.
Another important brain protein called tau stabilizes nerve cells and effectively distributes nutrients to brain cells. Once this protein starts to build up abnormally, it forms neurofibrillary tangles that cause chemical modifications in the brain. This also blocks the neuron transport system and affects synaptic communication.
Here are some of the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Carrying genes for Alzheimer’s, such as ApoE4 variants
- Vascular diseases
- High blood pressure
- A sedentary lifestyle
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Smoking
Symptoms Of Alzheimer’s Disease
Here are some symptoms and behaviors that Alzheimer’s patients experience that worsen with time.
- Trouble performing familiar tasks
- Memory loss
- Trouble with taking part in daily activities
- Unable to make decisions or solve problems
- Decline in judgment
- Withdrawal from social activities and community
- Disorientation and inability to remember the time and place
- Problems with writing and speech
- Changes in personality and behavior
- Unable to communicate clearly
- Repetitively asking questions
- Misplacing their things
- Losing track of ongoing conversations
- Forgetting the names of friends and family
- Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy
- Hesitancy in trying out new things
According to a report by the Alzheimer’s Society, the life expectancy of this disease diagnosis is around 8 to 10 years.
Early diagnosis can help caregivers proactively administer suitable treatments and create a personalized care plan to slow down the progression of this disease.
Here are some ways the disease is diagnosed.
- Initially, the healthcare provider will take the patient’s medical history and conduct a physical exam
- Some tests, like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and the Mini-Cog, will be performed
- MRIs and CTs are also required
- Blood and urine tests
- Neurological tests to examine muscle strength, sensory function, and reflexes
- a consultation with physicians, neurologists, geriatricians, and geriatric psychiatrist
These tests and exams are used to evaluate impaired brain functioning and problems with memory, language, and planning. Some early signs and symptoms include problems with memory and decision-making.
Any close friend or family member should share their concerns about changes in mood and behavior in their aging loved ones to get immediate help from a professional.
How to Establish a Care Plan for Someone with Alzheimer’s Disease
Caring for an Alzheimer’s patient can be an emotionally tasking job, which is why many families opt for home caregiving services to get comprehensive care for their aging loved ones.
Here is how you can establish an appropriate care plan for your loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Talk to your loved ones about their wishes: Make sure to discuss end-of-life wishes with your loved ones and talk to them about the kind of medical treatments they want.
- Take care of all legal matters: You will require authorization to make decisions on behalf of your loved one. Talk to a family lawyer and ask the Alzheimer’s patient about any advanced health care directives that need to be followed in the case of a medical emergency.
- Take care of financial matters: You can create a financial power of attorney to make any financial decisions on your loved one’s behalf. Make sure to thoroughly read their insurance policies to get a better idea about the coverage for supplemental care, health, life, etc.
Types of Care Available for Alzheimer’s Patients
Here are the types of care available for Alzheimer’s patients.
- Long-term care: Long-term care includes moving into an assisted living community and getting 24-hour nursing care
- In-home care: The patient receives in-home care from a professional in-home caregiver. This allows the patients to live in a familiar environment and stay close to their friends and family.
- Hospice care:Hospice care is required when the patient is coming close to the end of their life. This can take place in a long-term care institute or at their home.
- Respite care:Respite care is short-term care by a caregiver.
- Adult day center:Some caregivers are busy during the daytime and aren’t available to look after the patient during that time. This is why families consider adult day centers where their loved ones get appropriate care and assistance along with meals and transportation services.
Looking After Someone with Alzheimer’s Disease
Here are some of the most effective ways to look after someone with Alzheimer’s.
Establishing Consistent Daily Routines
Alzheimer’s patients really like routine and familiarity. Establishing a consistent daily schedule can help reduce anxiety and confusion.
Ensure that daily activities like meals, medication, and other fun activities occur at the same time each day. A routine provides a sense of structure and predictability, promoting a more comfortable and secure environment for your loved one.
Utilize Memory Aids
Memory loss is the most common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Implementing memory aids can significantly enhance the patient’s ability to navigate daily life. Simple tools such as labeled drawers, calendars, and to-do lists can serve as visual reminders.
Technology can also be used, with smartphones and tablets offering apps designed to assist individuals with Alzheimer’s in remembering important tasks and events.
Effective Communication Strategies
As the disease progresses, communication can become quite challenging.
Use clear and simple language, and ask one question at a time. Maintain eye contact and be patient, allowing your loved one ample time to respond. Non-verbal cues such as facial expressions and gestures become increasingly important. Also, be attuned to the emotions behind their words, as they may not be able to express all of their feelings verbally.
Creating a Supportive Environment
The physical environment plays a crucial role in Alzheimer’s care. Minimize clutter and create clear pathways to reduce the risk of falls.
Ensure that the living space is well-lit to prevent disorientation. Familiar items and photographs can offer a sense of comfort and trigger positive memories. Additionally, consider installing safety measures such as handrails and grab bars to enhance mobility and prevent accidents.
Encourage Independence
While Alzheimer’s disease diminishes cognitive abilities, it’s essential to promote a sense of independence. Break down tasks into manageable steps, offering assistance when needed but allowing the individual to participate in daily activities as much as possible. This not only maintains a level of autonomy but also contributes to a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
Provide Emotional Support for Caregivers
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be emotionally draining. Caregivers must prioritize their well-being. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups.
Consider enlisting the help of professional caregivers to provide respite. Taking breaks and maintaining one’s mental and physical health is not only essential for the caregiver but also benefits the patient by ensuring the care they receive is consistently of high quality.
Stay Informed and Adapt
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, and staying informed about its stages and symptoms is super important. Regularly consult with your healthcare provider and adjust caregiving strategies accordingly.
As the needs of your loved one evolve, so should your approach to providing Alzheimer’s care. Being flexible and adaptive ensures that you provide the best possible support throughout the different stages of the disease.
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