____ Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias: Symptoms, Stages, and Communication Strategies Expanded Self-Assessment Quiz Question
Healthcare Consideration: It is important that members of the care team collaborate to explore new technological options that can improve aspects of the AD situation. Assistive tech- nologies can limit wandering and help with communication, various therapies, medication reminders, socialization, and education. They can also support a sense of independence (Palmdorf et al., 2021). DELIVER A RESPONSE WITH WARMTH AND REASSURANCE Focus on the feelings the AD patient expresses, as opposed to their actual words. Respond with verbal and physical expres- sions of comfort, warmth, and reassurance. If the patient is comfortable with touch, offer your hand as a gesture of safety and kindness. Respect boundaries, go slowly, and let the patient know that you are a loving presence. REMINISCE AND MAINTAIN A SENSE OF HUMOR Let the patient share stories, as patients will have an easier time remembering their personal history and things from the past. Encourage the person to share photos and personal images, and if they are open to questions, then ask them to share more.
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.
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.
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
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