____ Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias: Symptoms, Stages, and Communication Strategies Expanded
BEST PRACTICES: CARING FOR THE PATIENT WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE As AD progresses, challenges for daily care related to hygiene, such as bathing, can present (Alzheimer’s Association, 2022). There are many reasons for this—people may not want to share that type of intimacy, or the person with AD may have a fear of water, which combined with eyesight challenges may be overwhelmingly scary. Limitations in communication may also prompt frustration and resistance to bathing. Table 5 provides suggestions for caring for a patient with Alzheimer’s disease. For further insight and suggestions for care, join ALZCon- nected, a virtual support community for caregivers. Self-Assessment Quiz Question
ACTIVITIES TO ENGAGE THE PATIENT WITH AD Plan frequent modifications of activities, based on the person’s responsiveness and disease stage. Consider the following approaches when engaged in activity and routine. AFFIRM, DISTRACT, AND REDIRECT Affirm by acknowledging the patient’s expression or action with validating a statement such as “I see that you are upset” followed by distracting with a question such as “I’m sorry you are upset—would you like to have lunch?” These statements are more manageable for an AD patient who may lack the capacity to communicate their thoughts clearly. Redirection that can improve the situation could be suggesting a walk or looking at photos. This approach will need to be modified but can defuse difficult situations.
11. What type of clothing will be helpful for a patient with AD?
A) Items with elastic waists. B) Items with small zippers. C) Overalls. D) Belts.
CARING FOR PATIENTS WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Initiative
Implementation
Other Suggestions
Create large, visible calendar • Review daily schedule
• Color-code days and events
• Reference throughout the day
Maintain structured routine with established times
• Bathing • Dressing • Meals/snacks
Create daily to-do list
• Engage person with AD • Provide them with copy
• Reference throughout the day, if needed • Alexa, smartphone, Google Home • Customize based on responsiveness • Make sure room is light • Can play background music • Person may want to wear the same thing daily • Limit accessories • Large zipper pulls • Avoid shoelaces, buttons, and buckles • In later stages person will not be able to discern water temperature • Once water is comfortable, allow for dignified experience
Plan activities of interest
• Use technology to engage and set reminders • Establish times throughout the day for quiet, unscheduled moments • Wearable items should have elastic waists • All items should be comfortable • Get multiple items of favorite pieces • Slip-proof, slip-on shoes
Schedule quiet time
Dressing
Bathing/showering
• Install grab bars • Use sturdy shower chair • Slip-proof mat on the floor
Table 5 continues on next page
13
EliteLearning.com/Psychology
Powered by FlippingBook