It can be a real challenge to take care of a person with Alzheimer’s, both for them,
and for you, the caregiver or loved one. There is nothing more difficult than to see
somebody you know completely forget who you are, where they are, and what is
going on around them.
But there are steps that you can take to ensure that you give proper and beneficial
care to somebody with Alzheimer’s as they battle this difficult and debilitating
disorder. Their disorientation may not improve, but at least you will know that they
are loved and cared for properly.
Have Patience
First and foremost, whether you are speaking or just sitting with someone who has
Alzheimer’s, you must have patience with them. It is not their fault that they are
behaving in this manner, and it is certainly not their fault that they are unable to
remember your, or memories from their past.
Treat them with love, compassion, and patience as you deal with them and interact
on a daily basis. While they may never come around, and they might just remain
disoriented, getting mad at them certainly won’t help the situation. Remain calm,
positive, and show patience during their time of need.
Speak Slowly and Calmly
Alzheimer’s patients are already disoriented; they do not need to be more confused
by fast talking, or difficult, confusing rhetoric. Speak calmly with them and make
sure that they are focused and oriented towards you and your words.
Calm, slow, and steady talking can help calm them down and allow them some peace
during what otherwise is a turbulent time for an Alzheimer’s patient. So instead of
rambling a mile a minute and confusing them further, take your time and focus on
their needs, communication patterns, and pacing.
Listen – Don’t Talk
Sometimes, it’s beneficial to listen to them and what they have to say, as opposed to
injecting your speech and communication in a situation that might otherwise just
confuse them. So instead of talking all the time, just listen to the patient and take in
what they have to say.
Whether it’s a story from a time long ago, or any other conversation that they would
like to have, just talking and interacting can be very beneficial to them and their
psyche, as they communicate with another person who values their existence.
All in all, it can be difficult to deal with Alzheimer’s patients, but when you have
patience, love, and compassion towards them, good things come together.