The later stages include apathy, lethargy, and social isolation (Alzheimer’s Association, 2022). Understanding these stages
will be beneficial to the individual affected as well as their caregiver.
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. Table 4. Caring for Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative Implementation
Limitations in communication may also prompt frustration and resistance to bathing. Table 4 provides suggestions for caring for a patient with Alzheimer’s disease. For further insight and suggestions for care, join ALZConnected, a virtual support community for caregivers.
Other Suggestions
Create large, visible calendar
• Review daily schedule • Reference throughout the day
• Color-code days and events
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
Plan activities of interest
• Use technology to engage and set reminders
• Alexa, smartphone, Google Home • Customize based on responsiveness
Schedule quiet time
• 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
• Make sure room is light • Can play background music
Dressing
• 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 • Taste may change • Food may need to be prepared in bite- size pieces • Monitor eating habits to avoid hazards • Provide support, as needed; allow the person to be independent • The person may repeat questions and thoughts; continue to respond • Distract the person if frustration presents • Take walks, show photos, play music
Bathing/showering
• Install grab bars • Use sturdy shower chair • Slip-proof mat on the floor
Mealtime
• Provide sufficient time for meals • Eat at the same time daily • Prepare nutritious meals that are easy to eat • Engage the person in the preparation process • Maintain a calm atmosphere for meals • Always speak in a calm, reassuring voice • Practice active listening • Validate the person; redirect, don’t correct • Engage the person in decision making, as appropriate • Refrain from asking “Do you remember?” • Encourage conversation, validate
Communication
Space
• Display beloved items and photos throughout the home
AD spectrum of behaviors • Angry outbursts
• Address environmental changes, uncomfortable clothing, allergies, modifications to diet • Caregiving strategies will need to be modified • Logic is not always the best approach
• Oppositional behavior • Agitation and aggression • Fear
Book Code: SWUS1525
Page 118
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