It may be a bit intimidating to understand exactly what to say and how to behave when spending time with someone you care about with Alzheimer’s. And, sadly, because of a few inherent facets of Alzheimer's, commonly family and friends feel so uncomfortable they avoid visiting the person anymore. Understanding more information about Alzheimer's disease behaviors and what to anticipate, and planning ahead about how to manage challenging behaviors, might help.
The leading difficulties family members and friends encounter with their loved one with Alzheimer’s disease fall into one of three categories: changes in behavior, changes in memory, and communication ability; and the level of difficulty will likely fluctuate in accordance with the particular stage of the disease the senior happens to be experiencing.
- As a way to help overcome these challenges and then make the visit as enjoyable as you can make it, Independence-4-Seniors Home Care’s La Grange Alzheimer’s care professionals recommend the following plan of action:
- Begin your visit with a smile, and be prepared to re-introduce yourself if required.
- Use simple language and brief sentences; talk slowly.
- Refrain from arguing with or correcting the senior.
- Bring along photos from a favorite past memory for reminiscing.
- Listen to a few of the person’s favorite songs together, and ask the senior to dance if he or she would like!
- Taking a walk together if at all possible, or any other physical exercise, could make the visit more fun for both of you.
- Stay calm throughout your visit, even if the senior gets agitated or displays inappropriate behavior.
- Maintain a sense of respect during your conversation, understanding the person is likely to repeat questions and statements.
- Minimize distractions in order to provide the individual with your full attention.
- Above all, remember who the senior was pre-dementia, and remind the individual what she or he has done that has inspired you or helped you become the individual that you are today.
For more advice on effective communications with people experiencing Alzheimer's disease behaviors, or for specialized hands-on care assistance, contact the La Grange senior care Alzheimer’s team at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care. Our skilled dementia caregivers are fully trained and experienced in a variety of tactics to make sure seniors with Alzheimer’s disease remain safe and are in a position to live life to the fullest, with the utmost respect and compassion all the time.