As your loved one ages, it is inevitable that he or she will experience a dramatic decline in physical and mental health. With that said, it is particularly painful and shocking to family members when an elder loved one starts to lose their memory due to Alzheimer’s disease. While the disease disproportionately affects women over 65, younger individuals of both genders are still susceptible to early onset of the disease. If the time ever comes, it helps tremendously to be mentally prepared and knowledgeable to support your loved one through an emotionally trying period in their (and your) lives.
The best thing to do for Alzheimer’s patients is to continue to treat them with respect. As Alzheimer’s patients begin to lose their mental faculties, it is important to show them that they are still valued and loved by their family and friends. Those suffering from Alzheimer’s tend to feel vulnerable, so any support they receive will help ease them through their illness.
Some of the things family members can do to help reinforce self-confidence and respect in an Alzheimer’s patient include:
- showing affection
- spending quality time with the person, actively conversing with them
- being tolerant and patient
- doing activities together
- maintain a respectful tone; don’t talk down to them while speaking
- avoid criticism
- never talk over them
- respect their privacy
- offer support when they want to express their feelings
- avoid creating situations where they are likely to fail
- perform actions with the person, instead of for them
- phrase your questions simply, to allow for yes or no answers
- compliment them on appearance
- establish a routine
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