How to Manage the Behavior of Alzheimer Disease

For those who are currently suffering from Alzheimer's Disease or have loved ones who have recently been diagnosed, it can be challenging to learn how to cope with the condition. From forgetfulness to changes in the personality, there are a long list of symptoms that accompany the disease and be difficult to understand. To learn how to manage the behavior and cope with it, there are a few important steps to take.

Preventing Wandering

A common habit that many people begin once they have Alzheimer's Disease is pacing back and forth when they become stressed in their environment or in a certain situation. It's important to recognize what triggers the pacing to help ease their nerves and help comfort them. You'll also need to place locks on certain doors and secure the property to prevent them from leaving the location and getting lost.

Dealing with Repetitive Phrases or Questions

Many adults with Alzheimer's Disease are prone to repeating themselves when communicating with others due to a lack of memory. It can be easy for them to ask the same questions or repeat comments that they've already made due to brain cells that are failing. To help manage the behavior, family members and friends of the individual should reassure the person that everything is fine to help ease the stress that the person may be feeling, which typically causes them to continue saying the same phrase. Ease their concerns and have patience to help them remain calm.

Managing Depression

It's normal for adults with Alzheimer's Disease to suffer from depression, but that doesn't mean that their feelings should go ignored. Make it a point to have the individual seek professional help to receive proper treatment through specific techniques or medication. The senior should also be encouraged to maintain an active and busy schedule to improve their moods with music lessons or dance classes in social settings. The individual should not be left alone for long periods of time, which can trigger depression and cause it to become more severe due to isolation.

Coping with Stubbornness

Seniors are prone to become more stubborn once they develop the disease and will become less flexible with their schedule or the people they maintain relationships with. Although the individual may argue or refuse to take their medication or forget why they need to go to their doctor's appointment, you'll need to have patience with their behavior. Make an effort to avoid arguments, which can cause them to have outbursts or become irrational due to more stress. When they don't want to participate in certain tasks, you can encourage them to go along with the activity by offering incentives or rewards.

Visit Phoenix Home Care for more info!