Shining a Light: Supporting Loved Ones During Alzheimer's Awareness Month
November is a month to pause, reflect, and give thanks. It's also a crucial time to raise our voices for a disease that affects millions: Alzheimer's. Recognized as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, November is dedicated to shining a light on this devastating condition and, critically, on the dedicated individuals who provide care.
We here at Caring Companions at Home have always been staunch advocates for fighting this horrible disease and partners of Alzheimer's Orange County where our CEO and Founder Diane Mondini also serves on the Board of Directors.
If you are a caregiver, a family member, or a friend of someone living with Alzheimer's or other form of Dementia, you are on a journey that requires immense strength, patience, and love. This month, let's explore ways to provide meaningful support while also recognizing the need for caregivers to care for themselves.
The Pillars of Support: How Caregivers Can Help
Caring for a person with Alzheimer's is a dynamic process that evolves as the disease progresses. The most effective support centers on maintaining dignity, safety, and connection.
Establish Comforting Routine and Environment
Consistency is key for minimizing confusion and anxiety.
- Create a Daily Rhythm: Keep meals, bathing, and favorite activities at similar times each day. Use a large, simple calendar or visual cues to reinforce the routine.
- Simplify the Home: Reduce clutter and remove tripping hazards like small rugs and cords. Use good lighting, especially in hallways and bathrooms. Consider safety measures like securing chemicals and locking up dangerous items.
- Embrace Familiarity: Keep well-loved objects and photographs around the house. These provide grounding and can spark positive connections, even when recent memories fade.
Communicate with Compassion and Patience
As verbal skills change, communication shifts from focusing on facts to connecting through feeling.
- Speak Calmly and Clearly: Use gentle simple language and speak at a slower pace.
- Focus on Emotion: If your loved one is confused or recounting a mixed-up memory, acknowledge the feeling they are expressing rather than correcting the facts. For example, "It sounds like you loved working downtown with Frank," rather than "You worked at University with Frank in the country."
