Home care for an Alzheimer's patient

Memory loss is something many people experience when they grow old. For some, it may be a few unrelated incidents now and then. But for others, it is something they have to deal with on a daily basis as a medical condition.

The condition

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. The condition is characterised by the gradual decline of mental ability, until the patient is unable to lead a normal life. Alzheimer’s begins with of short-term memory loss, and progressively declines to the point where patients become delusional and stop recognising their loved ones. They lose the ability to recognise their surroundings and require support in day-to-day activities.

Alzheimer’s is a life-altering disease not just for the patient, but also for
family members and caregivers. Here
are a few steps, which will help family members care for an Alzheimer’s patients at home:

Don’t generalise the memory loss: As Alzheimer’s patients tend to forget most things, loved ones or caregivers assume that they remember nothing. Such assumptions can prove detrimental in the care of the patient, as it may further alienates them from the treatment.

Help them remember: The ability of Alzheimer’s patients to remember facts and events diminishes with age, therefore patients tend to forget recent occurrences faster. Although they recollect cherished memories, which are deeply engraved in their minds, talking about the old times will help them recollect those memories.

Address them by their name: Based on the patient-caregiver relationship, it is important to call the patient by his or
her name. This helps keep the relationship in perspective, and he or she becomes more acceptable of the people around.

Make eye contact: Show the patient that you care. Eye contact plays an important role in comforting the patient and creating a sense of belonging. Instead of standing over them, sit at their level, as this will make them feel less sceptical about your actions.

Talk slowly: While speaking, keep the pace of the conversation slow and talk to them in short sentences so they can understand better. Alzheimer’s impacts their capability to understand too many things at once.

Be patient: Often Alzheimer’s patients ask questions that can irritate and frustrate family members or caregivers. It is important to be patient. However, treating them like children won’t help. Don’t force them to recall anything during a conversation, as they may feel embarrassed and insulted.

Build a consistent experience: It is not easy to involve Alzheimer’s patients in social activities at home. Engage them through pictures and music. Don’t change their routine. Avoid shifting their rooms or living space frequently, as they take more time to adjust to their surroundings.

Take safety measures: Use anti-slip mats at home to prevent falls. Furthermore, leave the lights switched on at night, as the patient might lose direction at home or fall while walking.

Dr Krishnan PR
(The author is a consultant neurologist, Fortis Hospital)