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Dealing With Day-To-Day Basic Tasks

Alzheimer's caregiving takes patience and flexibility. To reduce frustration, consider these tips for daily tasks — from limiting choices and reducing distractions to creating a safe environment.

In the early stages of Alzheimer's, your loved one may still be able to live and function independently. However, the ability to handle daily tasks will dwindle as the disease progresses.

For the caregiver the role seems to move from being there to help and keep the suffer safe to accepting reality of the disease. In the later stages I found the role change to trying to find ways to maintain the day-to-day but more importantly it was all about maintaining the quality of life and comfort for the sufferer. Consider these practical tips to help your loved one maintain comfort and dignity as he or she becomes more dependent on you or other caregivers.

Reduce frustrations

A person who has Alzheimer's may react with frustration, agitation and even aggression when once-automatic tasks become difficult or impossible.

To limit challenges and ease frustration:

• Schedule wisely. Establish a routine to make each day more predictable and less confusing. Schedule the most difficult tasks, such as bathing or medical appointments, for the time of day when your loved one tends to be most calm and agreeable.
• Take your time. Expect things to take longer than they used to. Schedule more time to complete even simple tasks so that you don't need to hurry your loved one.
• Involve your loved one. Allow your loved one to do as much as possible with the least amount of assistance. For example, perhaps your loved one can dress alone if you lay out the clothes in the order they go on.
• Limit choices. The fewer the options, the easier it is to decide. For example, provide two outfits to choose between — not a closet full of clothes.
• Provide simple instructions. When you ask your loved one to do something, do it one step at a time.
• Reduce distractions. Turn off the TV and minimize other distractions at mealtime and during conversations so that your loved one can better focus on the task at hand.

Be flexible

Your loved one's ability to function and cope will steadily decline. It may even vary from day to day. Try to stay flexible and adapt your routine as needed.

... In my experience ... IF you can learn how to think 'outside the box' it helps
do not always think logically ... sometimes a practical and creative solution can be found

For example,

• a favorite food may suddenly become unappealing. That's OK, simply adjust the menu.
• your loved one may insist on wearing the same outfit every day. If that happens, consider buying a few identical outfits.
• When your loved one is bathing, switch the worn outfit for a clean one.

You might also relax your standards a bit. Bathing, for example, may not be necessary every day — especially if it's upsetting for your loved one. Try sponge baths between showers or tub baths.

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