Visiting a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s is a wonderful way to bond as a family, yet the symptoms of the disease can sometimes present a few challenges. Fortunately, you can ease the stress on your loved one while strengthening your bond by using the following tips.
1. Choose the Right Time
“Sundowning” is a term used to describe behavioral changes a senior with Alzheimer’s may experience during certain times of the day. Talk to your loved one’s caregiver about what time of the day your parent tends to be at his or her best. Then plan your visit for this time.
If your elderly loved one is living with Alzheimer’s and needs help managing the symptoms, turn to Heroes Home Care, a leading provider of Alzheimer’s care. Amarillo seniors can rely on our revolutionary Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program that promotes cognitive health and delays the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. CTM also encourages seniors to engage with others in an enjoyable way and helps them build new routines to look forward to.
2. Plan a Soothing Activity
Long conversations are often challenging for seniors with Alzheimer’s. Instead, plan a comforting activity that demonstrates how much you care. Walking together, listening to music, and giving your loved one a manicure are all activities that can allow you to connect without taxing his or her memory.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Heroes Home Care, a leading provider of at-home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
3. Meet in a Familiar Setting
Seniors with Alzheimer’s can get confused in unfamiliar environments. Try to meet where your loved one spends the majority of his or her day, such as a quiet space in the home. Crowded restaurants and other public spaces can be too overwhelming for a successful meeting with your loved one.
4. Know How to Communicate
It’s important for everyone in the family to understand how to properly communicate with your loved one. Make sure to greet your parent by name, and speak in a calm, clear tone. If your loved one has difficulty remembering something during a conversation, avoid criticism. Instead, move on to a different topic or activity.
5. Respect the Routine
Schedules and routines are tools seniors with Alzheimer’s use to make sense of the world. If your loved one has specific times for naps or meals, respect them by altering when you arrive and leave if necessary. By making sure your loved one’s needs are met, your family is sure to have an enjoyable visit.
There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Heroes Home Care is a leading Amarillo elder care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today at (806) 803-9991.