Caring for Those with Mid-Stage Alzheimer’s

Managing Alzheimer’s is difficult for family members and for those suffering from the disease. In the middle stages of Alzheimer’s, afflicted seniors may suddenly become confused about what they are doing or forget important information. As a result, they also start to lose their independence. Any one of these would be a frustrating experience, yet for those with middle stage Alzheimer’s this happens over and over and sadly gets progressively worse. 

This repetition of the same problems, coupled with their senior’s frustration, can wear down caregivers. It is important to keep the perspective of the senior in mind as well as be prepared to deal with common scenarios you may encounter in order to help cope with and manage the stresses of Alzheimer’s. 

Scenario 1

Seniors at this stage start to lose the ability to be as independent as they once were and will need to stop driving or doing other independent activities they were once able to do. So, how do you best handle this scenario?

Don’t: Make decisions for them, belittle or baby them.

Do: Involve them in decision-making, explain your concerns, and reassure them that their needs can still be met in other ways (e.g. giving them rides, visiting them, helping them with grocery shopping.)

Scenario 2

Your senior needs help with routine tasks, such as getting dressed or other personal hygiene tasks.

Don’t: Do everything for them, treat them like a child, or disregard their privacy.

Do: Let them do as much as possible, encourage their independence, and respect their right to privacy. 

Scenario 3

Your senior is frustrated by not being able to remember names of friends or other important information such as their phone number or address.

Don’t: Become impatient and short with them or treat them as incompetent.

Do: Take care of yourself so you can have the patience to deal with the stresses and frustrations that arise. Write down important information in an easily visible place. 

Alzheimer’s can be difficult to handle for both those suffering from the disease and their caregivers. There are many ways to manage it, however, that can lead to a full and happy life. Contact us for more information on managing Alzheimer’s.