This year over 15 million people in the U.S. provide unpaid care for someone with AD (Alzheimer's disease) according to alz.org. If you or someone you know are involved, these easy suggestions - adapted from an article I wrote for One Generation - will help the holidays be a time everyone enjoys together.
When you remember to accept your loved one at whatever level they are functioning at, and focus on what they CAN do, a good time can be had by all. Enjoy the holidays.
On a personal note, I have been ill this past year and so will be taking a rest from the blog.
Bless you in all you do to care for others.
- Interacting with the grandchildren can be a joy when you have activities they can do together, like coloring or puzzles, so be prepared. They may also like to look at picture books together or a family scrapbook.
- Give her a sense she is still contributing to the family by letting her perform simple repetitive tasks like cleaning the kitchen counters. Simple directions and short sentences are easiest for her to understand.
- Remember grandpa's brain is functioning at a much slower rate, so it's helpful to speak slowly and always give warning when an activity is changing, such as moving to the dining table for dinner.
- Observe your loved one to see if they need help cutting their food. If serving dishes are passed, don't expect elderly hands to hold up heavy food platters - choose someone to sit next to her who can dish up what she'd like to eat.
- If he becomes agitated, play soothing classical music. Watching something repetitive, like fish swimming in an aquarium. Watching waves breaking, or pond ripples can also be calming.
- While someone with AD may not always understand what you are saying, she may more often understand the tone of voice and body language. Don't argue with her. Instead, put a smile in your voice and all will flow easier.
- Whenever possible, keep a slight smile on your face. Scientific studies have found a "happiness loop" - just as when one feels happy they smile, when you smile your brain thinks you are happy. Try it. You'll be amazed at how quickly you start feeling happier.
- Offer affection and reassure him you are happy he is there. Take time to give him a hug or hold his hand. Tell him and show him he is still important to you and the rest of the family.
When you remember to accept your loved one at whatever level they are functioning at, and focus on what they CAN do, a good time can be had by all. Enjoy the holidays.
On a personal note, I have been ill this past year and so will be taking a rest from the blog.
Bless you in all you do to care for others.
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