When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s it can often be a terrifying time. Alzheimer’s is the most feared illness among senior citizens. As one becomes older and the onset of Alzheimer’s begins to be present, one can make a few changes around one’s home to continue living by him or herself. Someone diagnosed with Alzheimer's undoubtedly will become too incapacitated to remain living on one’s own. However, during the early stages of Alzheimer’s it is recommended one remain in his or her familiar surroundings.
According to WebMD there are a few steps one can take to rearrange one’s home. Rearranging one’s home will make it easier for him or her to remain familiar with his or her surroundings. A caregiver should make signs to label cupboards and drawers with. These signs should have the contents of the drawers and cupboards clearly visible. A caregiver may also want to make signs to label family photos and other important items around the loved one’s home. Most important when one is caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s one must be aware of signs of depression, and malnutrition.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association studies have shown when a person with Alzheimer’s is kept in familiar surroundings it is most beneficial in keeping the mind active. When a person with Alzheimer’s has an active mind the person has a renewed sense of self-esteem. This also helps to maintain the person’s quality of life. Keeping the mind active will allow a person with dementia to remember sometimes troublesome memories. Studies have shown when caregivers are cautious in helping the person with dementia, he or she may have fewer bouts with depression. A routine for the person with Alzheimer’s is important. A routine will help the person maintain a little independence; this is especially important in the early stages.
When a person with dementia maintains the quality of life and a high self-esteem the person is less likely to develop some form of depression. Depression is common among those with Alzheimer’s. There are effective methods for handling depression involving medicine and some effective treatments that do not involve medicine. Some of the most common prescribed medicines to treat a person with dementia-related depression are medicines such as: Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft. When caring for a person with Alzheimer’s it is important not to talk to him or her in a childlike tone. The person is still quite mature despite having dementia.
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Stacey Gaubatz - I was born in North Carolina. I began writing in high school. I was first published in my district writing publication. I just began, late ...
