Alzheimer's disease induces alterations in brain functionality, impacting a patient's behavior and cognitive abilities, leading to challenges in processing information, communicating, and retaining memories. Some individuals encounter difficulties in problem-solving and articulating thoughts verbally. Unlike the usual symptoms associated with aging, Alzheimer's is not an inherent part of the aging process, and the condition of patients tends to worsen rapidly. Currently, there is no definitive cure for Alzheimer's, but treatment involves the administration of medications to enhance memory and decelerate the advancement of the disease.
How can one care for an Alzheimer's patient at home?
1-Families must ask questions if they find the doctor's explanations unclear to ensure they are fully informed about managing the disease.
2- Creating a calm home environment is essential for the patient's comfort, reducing fear and tension.
3-Assisting the patient in maintaining a consistent sleep-wake schedule and establishing a daily routine is important.
4-Planning a well-balanced and healthy diet at regular intervals, while avoiding beverages containing caffeine and alcohol, is advised.
5-Allocating time for physical exercise, companionship, and relaxation is beneficial.
Daily hygiene is crucial, involving assistance with dressing and dental care.
6-Keeping dim lights on at night can prevent disorientation if the patient wakes up.
Maintaining a daily record that serves as a written memory aid for daily events helps the patient track daily life and visitors.
7-Keeping a calendar with all clinic visits, therapy sessions, and doctor's appointments is vital, aiming not to miss any.
8-Removing sharp objects such as knives or scissors is a safety measure.
Ensuring doors are closed to prevent wandering outside the house and using alarms or bells on doors, can provide alerts when leaving.
It is recommended to ask the patient to wear a necklace or bracelet inscribed with "Memory Impairment," along with their phone number, address, and caregiver's name.
Regarding the use of medications, the doctor may prescribe them to:
-Improve memory.
-Slow down the progression of the disease.
-Address stress or anxiety
Behavioral changes in Alzheimer's patients
The individual might lose interest in previously significant matters, display a quick temper, and experience mood swings. Additionally, there may be unsettling sexual behavior towards others.
-Memory decline: Forgetfulness regarding familiar places and routine events is common. Everyday recipes may be forgotten, and the individual could miss appointments or accidentally leave the stove on. Misplacing keys or glasses is also a potential occurrence.
-Reduced functional capability: The person may encounter difficulties in tasks like managing bills or handling household chores. Ordinary activities, such as shopping, may become less familiar.
-Impaired communication skills: Difficulty in finding the right words may lead to an inability to express needs. Understanding directions or instructions may become challenging.
-Harm to others and self-harm: Often unintentional, these actions can pose significant problems and may result from changes in balance or depth perception.
-Limited mobility can lead to injuries, falls, respiratory infections, or bedsores due to decreased activity and diminished functional capacity.
When do I need to contact the doctor?
1-Feeling anxious about the possibility of the patient harming themselves or others.
2-The patient experiences a sudden change in their condition or mental function.
3-The patient struggles to eat or sleep.
4-When it becomes unsafe to continue caring for the patient at home.
5-If there is no improvement in the patient's health status or the patient perceives a deterioration in their condition.
What post-treatment care is necessary?
The doctor might recommend a clinic visit to monitor the patient's progress. Regular attendance at these appointments is vital, as follow-up is an essential element of the disease management plan.
The doctor may also suggest consulting with a psychologist or mental health specialist to address issues related to behavior, mood fluctuations, sleep disturbances, or anxiety.
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