How to Support a Person with Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition that affects not only the persons who are diagnosed but also their entire families, especially those who take on the role of caregiver. When a mother or father receives this diagnosis, the emotional impact is profound and often accompanied by fear, uncertainty, and many unanswered questions. Although there is currently no definitive cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are many actions that can help slow cognitive decline in addition to medical treatments, and most importantly, maintain quality of life for as long as possible.
Emotional support is perhaps one of the most important aspects of care. To communicate effectively with a person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease:
- Speak calmly and patiently. Avoid rushing them and plan routines with a wide time margin to minimize impatience.
- Avoid constantly correcting them. Refrain from arguing when they become confused.
- Make them feel loved, useful, and respected. Often, how they feel is more important than what they remember.
- Help, but don’t take over. To boost their self-esteem and sense of usefulness, encourage them to participate the tasks they can still do. Provide the necessary help, but let them perform the action whenever possible.
Feeling loved, respected, and understood has a direct, positive impact on a person with Alzheimer’s disease’s quality of life.
Establishing daily routines provides a sense of security. People with Alzheimer’s disease often feel less anxious when their environment is predictable and familiar.
- Maintain fixed times for eating, sleeping, and daily activities.
- Avoid sudden changes to their schedule or living space.
- Simplify the environment, with simple, tidy, and uncluttered spaces.
- Limit daily choices. For example, keep the closet simple by making only seasonal clothes accessible or by laying out just two outfits for them to choose from.
- Organize the bathroom. Leave only the hygiene products you know they will use in plain sight.
This reduces anxiety and confusion.
One of the fundamental pillars of caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease is cognitive stimulation. Keeping the brain active can help preserve certain mental functions and improve emotional well-being.
Activities such as:
- Reading, even short texts.
- Talking about memories or looking at old photographs together.
- Playing simple games such as dominoes, cards, or word searches.
- Listening to music they enjoy (music is very powerful).
- Engaging in hobbies such as crafting, simple cooking, or gardening.
It is important to avoid frustration. Easy and enjoyable activities are best.
Maintaining an active lifestyle and a balanced diet is essential for people with Alzheimer’s.
- Regular exercise such as daily walks, gentle stretching, or dancing to familiar music, improves blood circulation, reduces stress, supports brain health, and enhances mood and sleep. Even 20 to 30 minutes a day makes a difference.
- Healthy eating complements exercise by nourishing the brain and body. Emphasize fruits, vegetables, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, nuts, and olive oil while limiting sugar and processed foods.
Together, physical activity and proper nutrition help slow cognitive decline, support overall well-being, and improve quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s.
Maintaining an active lifestyle and a balanced diet is essential for people with Alzheimer’s.
- Regular exercise such as daily walks, gentle stretching, or dancing to familiar music, improves blood circulation, reduces stress, supports brain health, and enhances mood and sleep. Even 20 to 30 minutes a day makes a difference.
- Healthy eating complements exercise by nourishing the brain and body. Emphasize fruits, vegetables, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, nuts, and olive oil while limiting sugar and processed foods.
Together, physical activity and proper nutrition help slow cognitive decline, support overall well-being, and improve quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s.
Finally, it is crucial to acknowledge the caregiver’s role. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Seeking support, sharing responsibilities, and allowing time for rest are not signs of weakness or selfishness, but necessities. Taking care of oneself is a fundamental part of caring for another person.
Although Alzheimer’s disease presents significant challenges, an approach based on cognitive stimulation, emotional support, structured routines, and holistic care can make a meaningful difference to the lives of those affected and of those who care for them.
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References: 1. Living with Alzheimer’s Disease: Practical Guide. Moleac Pte Ltd. August, 2024. 2. Propuestas para favorecer la gestión de las actividades de la vida de diaria de una persona con Alzheimer. Fundación Pasqual Maragall. January, 2022.
This document does not constitute the practice of medical consultation nor medical advice. Always seek the advice of your treating physician and/or specialist.
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