Managing the Behavioral Changes of Alzheimer’s Patients

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Managing the Behavioral Changes of Alzheimer’s Patients in Dallas, TX

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disorder that causes brain cells to die, which impacts the memory and other brain functions. The symptoms can aggravate over time and significantly affect the behavior of the patient. When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, family members need to understand the severity of the problem in order to help the patient live a better life. In this blog post, we list some of the common health and behavioral changes that occur in Alzheimer’s patient over time and ways to deal with them.

Disturbed Sleep Pattern

Alzheimer’s often affects the sleeping habits of the person. Patients either sleep a lot or not enough and wake up several times during the night. The caregiver needs to ensure that the patient exercises every day and gets enough rest at night. Plan early morning activities such as exercise and bathing that need more energy. Keep the lights low, reduce noise levels and play soothing music in the evening so that the person feels relaxed. Limit their caffeine intake and set a bedtime routine.

Communication Challenges

As Alzheimer’s patients have trouble remembering things, they might struggle with words or forget what they want to say. The disease might make it difficult for the patient to recollect the meaning of words or find the right words to use in a conversation. When communicating, make eye contact with the person and call them by their name. Encouraging a two-way conversation, showing warmth and holding hand while taking can make it easier for the Alzheimer’s patient to communicate.

Memory Loss

When Alzheimer’s is diagnosed at an early stage, most patients are aware of the fact that the disease is affecting their memory. If the patient wants to talk about the changes they are noticing, you must carefully listen to them. Exercise a lot of patience when the person struggles to find the right word. As many patients slowly lose their ability to talk clearly, you must pay attention to their facial expressions to better understand their moods.

Hallucinations and Paranoia

An Alzheimer’s patient might have hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. In addition to seeking medical help, you must try to comfort them by not arguing anything the patient said they heard or saw. Some of the ways to help them feel better distracting the person on to another subject, not reacting when the person blames you, letting them know that they are safe and using gentle touching and hugging.

Final Words

Alzheimer’s affects every patient differently, with many people eventually requiring 24×7 home care. Caring for an Alzheimer’s patient is challenging as the symptoms can get worse over time. That’s when you need an expert such as Dallas Home Care Assistance. Our professional caregivers have extensive experience in providing the right care and support to Alzheimer’s patients and are trained in both conventional Alzheimer’s care methods as well as Cognitive Therapeutics Methods that promote mental acuity and brain health. To learn more about our Alzheimer’s home care service, please feel free to reach us at (214) 363-3400.

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