Warning
Signs of Alzheimer's/Dementia and Caregiving Tips
Look for these early warning signs of Alzheimer's or dementia:
·
Memory loss affecting
daily function
·
Confusion about time,
place, people
·
Difficulty completing
familiar tasks
·
Problems understanding
visual information
·
New issues with speaking,
writing, logical thinking
·
Misplacing items, losing
valuables
·
Poor judgment,withdrawal
from work or social activities
Noticeable change from previous functioning is key. Share
concerns with a doctor.
Caring for Daily Needs
Tips for providing day-to-day care:
·
Maintain structure/routine
for meals, activities, sleep
·
Use calendars, clocks,
notes to orient to date and time
·
Lay out clothing,
toiletries for self-care tasks
·
Use lists, reminders for
medications, appointments
·
Provide easy to prepare
healthy foods
·
Promote physical activity
and social engagement
Creating a Safe,
Supportive Home
Adapt the home environment:
1.
Remove fall hazards like
rugs, improve lighting
2.
Install grab bars, rails,
lever-handle faucets
3.
Use labels or pictures as
visual cues
4.
Keep important items
easily accessible
5.
Consider adjusting layout
if behavioral issues arise
Caregiver Stress
Management
Caregiving tips for looking after your own wellbeing:
·
Ask family/friends for
help - don't do it alone
·
Take breaks when possible
·
Connect with support
groups
·
Prioritize healthy diet,
exercise, sleep
·
Schedule routine medical
checkups for yourself
·
Identify signs of burnout
early
When to Consider
Professional Help
Reaching out for additional care resources can provide valuable
support:
·
In-home healthcare aides
for companion care, respite
·
Adult day programs for
socializing, activities
·
Support groups provide
education, counseling
·
Consider memory care
communities if needs become complex
Caring for a loved one with dementia poses challenges. Seeking
help allows you to provide the best care while maintaining your own health.
Frequently Asked
Questions
How
early can Alzheimer's be detected?
Although Alzheimer's can't be diagnosed before symptoms arise,
early warning signs may be noticeable several years before diagnosis is
possible.
What is
the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia?
Alzheimer's is a specific disease and common cause of dementia.
Dementia is a term for progressive decline in mental abilities from conditions
including Alzheimer's.
Is
memory loss always a sign of Alzheimer's disease?
No, memory normally declines slightly with age. Discuss
significant, worsening memory problems with a doctor to determine the cause.
