8 Tips for Daily Life With Alzheimer's

Finding the Right Resources and Care After Diagnosis

Treatment after an Alzheimer's diagnosis can be devastating news for many. However, with the right steps and care, setting up future plans and preventing a faster onset of the disease is possible. As a condition that can progress slowly over time, it is vital immediately to start taking steps after the diagnosis. Proper choices should be discussed with one’s healthcare provider. Although some individuals may not feel they have a place to turn to, growing needs and care are becoming more of an issue for many hospitals and facilities to address.

• Identify the correct resources and care after a diagnosis: Being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in itself is daunting for anyone without adding the stress of the series of treatment to follow. Carrying out the correct actions as well as setting up future plans can help prevent a faster onset of this medical condition. Since the disease is known to progress gradually over time, it is important to start immediately once a diagnosis is made.
• Try to put a daily routine into place: Establishing a proper daily routine can help slow the progression of the disease. It is vital to encourage continuous effort on the part of the patient, and this would also mean the caregivers should keep up with the various activities that need to be managed, as well as assist in engaging the individual’s mind. Certain activities that may prove beneficial include music, games, art, writing, or any other kind of mentally stimulating activity. Throughout all of this, though, do not try to push activities that are frustrating for the patient. Also, when scheduling activities, do not include too many, as it can be draining for the individual.
• Set up goals that can meet realistic standards: Take things one day at a time, since it will not only be beneficial for the individual’s long-term health, but it can also give those who are in the early stages something to hope for. Approach each task slowly in incremental steps and be sure proper time is given to complete them. Setting up goals that are realistically able to be achieved as well as practicing them can help combat depression and anxiety disorders. Try using various strategies and methods that can ultimately help in the long run.
• Dietary changes: Diet may not cure this condition, but it can certainly help improve the delay caused by cognitive issues as well as ease some of the symptoms. Cut down on or completely remove refined sugar, limit foods that are high in cholesterol, and reduce salt intake to help lower blood pressure. Include vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, nuts, and legumes as part of the daily diet.
• Keep engaged: Pursue activities that can improve and refresh the patient’s mind. Try to do something they love, and choose hobbies that can fit within the established schedule as well as their lifestyle. Look into low-cost activities such as walking around or joining a game group.
• Get enough sleep: Any changes in one’s sleep pattern can affect their medical condition, and with Alzheimer’s, there are concerns about lack of sleep and napping during the day. Seek out treatments for any pain, ensure the room temperature is comfortable, and keep nightlights in order to see in darkened hallways.
• Follow up with the doctor regularly: It is important for Alzheimer patients to go in for regular check-ups. Maintain a calendar or a journal with daily reminders to combat the inevitable loss of memory. Be sure to stay up to date on personal hygiene and do not take on too many tasks at once.
• Assist in remembering tasks: For an Alzheimer’s patient, it will become increasingly difficult to remember even the smallest of tasks, so placing notes around the house can help the individual remember certain activities as well as provide a sense of accomplishment.