If you’ve ever known someone or cared for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, then you’ll know that some days are better than others. Of course, you want to try to create more of those good days and fewer bad or foggy days. Whether it’s for days in or days out, here are some tips for facilitating more successful days for your loved one with Alzheimer’s.
Establish a routine
It’s a good idea to follow a set routine every day with Alzheimer’s patients. This level of familiarity helps to reduce their anxiety and frustration, which can worsen when facing novel situations and environments. Not everything has to be set in stone, but try to stick to set meal times, activity times, and bedtimes, for example.
Encourage goal setting
We all want to feel productive and that we have some kind of purpose, and the same goes for people with Alzheimer’s. So, you should try to encourage your loved one to set goals and work towards them on a regular basis. This can be small goals like doing the dishes each day or it can involve a little more responsibility like tending to a garden or a house plant.
Keep them active
Staying active is good for our mental health as well as our physical health. Getting out for a walk with your loved one each day or just doing some basic exercises in the home can be great for keeping their mind as active as possible. Going out for walks can be especially beneficial as the fresh air and being surrounded by nature also have their benefits.
Introduce creative activities
Research has found that creative activities can be especially helpful in managing active symptoms of Alzheimer’s. You could try drawing, painting, or arts and crafts projects with your loved one. Playing a musical instrument is also a great activity, especially if they used to play when they were younger. Even listening to music can activate the brain in the same way as taking part in these creative activities.
Keep up with medication
Whatever medications your loved one has been prescribed, it’s important that they keep up with them in order to manage their symptoms as much as possible. Depending on their condition, they may need help managing their medication on a daily basis.
You can still create new memories and reminisce on old ones with your loved ones with Alzheimer’s. While it will often be difficult, following these tips can help you make those good days all the more likely. For more advice and support with Alzheimer’s and memory care, get in touch with Brookstone of Clemmons.
