Caring For a Loved One with Alzheimer's Disease
To ensure appropriate and effective caregiving for loved one’s with Alzheimer’s Disease, the following steps should be taken by carers and family members:
Educating oneself about the stages and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, by attending support groups and seeking the advice of healthcare professionals.
Creating a safe and comfortable environment, making sure the person’s surroundings are free of hazards and ensuring easy access to important items (such as medication).
Establish a daily routine, including a set schedule for meals, activities, and personal care, to help your loved one feel more secure and comfortable.
Encourage social interaction, especially activities that your loved one enjoys, such as card games, going for walks and spending quality time with friends and family.
Be patient and understanding, respecting that people with Alzheimer’s disease can easily become confused, agitated, or disoriented, and are often not intentionally behaving in a difficult manner.
Take time to rest and recharge as a caregiver, seeking support from family and friends where needed.
This multi-faceted approach ensures the most appropriate and effective care can be provided for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Support Resources for Caregivers and Families
Dementia Australia is the peak body for people living with dementia and their caregivers, providing support, information, and advocacy, including counselling, support groups and education programs.
Carer Gateway is a government-funded service that provides information, education, counselling, respite care and financial support for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.
My Aged Care is a government-funded service, offering assessments, support planning, and assistance with access to aged care services.
National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500) is a free, confidential service that provides information, support, and advice to people living with dementia and their caregivers.
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Risk of Alzheimer’s
Making healthy lifestyle choices can help to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, or delay the onset of the disease.
These healthy lifestyle choices should include:
At least 30 minutes of regular exercise on most days of the week, which studies have shown to have a positive effect on brain health.
A healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Activities such as reading, puzzles, or learning a new skill, to keep the brain active and engaged.
Maintaining social connections and activities.
At least 7 hours of quality sleep per night, to boost overall brain health.
Making regular appointments with a General Practitioner, to manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Keeping alcohol consumption to moderate levels, to protect brain health.
These healthy lifestyle choices provide a starting point for reducing one’s risk of Alzheimer’s Disease.
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