Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia, affects the parts of the brain controlling memory, language, and thought. It is usually diagnosed in older adults. However, it can still develop in younger individuals. As Canada’s population ages, the number of Alzheimer’s cases is also expected to rise.
According to the most recent data, nearly 402,000 seniors are diagnosed with dementia in Canada, highlighting the urgency to understand the struggles individuals face in their daily lives.
Here are some everyday struggles associated with Alzheimer’s disease:
Alzheimer’s Disease: Understanding Common Struggles and Essential Support
1. Physical Support
In Alzheimer’s care, the physical challenges faced by individuals are varied according to the stages of the disease. The progressive nature of the disease often leads to difficulties related to mobility, coordination, and basic self-care tasks.
Mobility Challenges
Alzheimer’s disease can impair motor skills which can make simple tasks like sitting, standing, and walking increasingly challenging. Individuals may experience unsteadiness, a lack of coordination, or even difficulty in completing movements. You can consider professional home care assistance for support with safe mobility.
Loss of Bladder and Bowel Control
As the disease advances, people with Alzheimer’s may encounter challenges in maintaining control over bodily functions. Forgetfulness or confusion can contribute to difficulties in locating the bathroom or recognizing the need to use it. A caregiver can set regular bathroom times, giving gentle reminders, and making sure they can easily reach the bathroom.
Daily Activities Assistance
Basic self-care activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating, can become increasingly difficult. Furthermore, transitions such as moving from one location to another, can be particularly challenging for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Our professional caregivers are trained to provide attentive assistance in daily activities. They implement clear and simple instructions to reduce confusion in daily tasks.
2. Medication Reminders and Planning
As this disease progresses, so does forgetfulness. There is an increase in memory loss and confusion. Some of the ways it can disrupt the daily routine are:
Forgetting Daily Schedule
Memory problems can disrupt an individual’s ability to organize daily life activities increasing their anxiety and confusion. Creating a daily routine and planning activities can help people with Alzheimer’s feel less stressed.
Medication Management
Forgetfulness also poses a significant risk concerning medication intake. Individuals may struggle to remember their prescribed medications, leading to potential health risks. Planning and organizing medications, with reminders, is important for consistent and accurate consumption, promoting health and preventing complications.
Professional Support for Doctor Appointments
Cognitive decline can impact the ability to manage and attend medical appointments. Coordinating and attending doctor appointments become challenging tasks for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Whereas professional support can ensure that caregivers schedule and attend necessary medical check-ups.
3. Emotional Support
Individuals may withdraw from social interactions, experience heightened sensitivity, or express their frustrations through emotional outbursts. For instance:
Reduced Participation in Activities
As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may gradually withdraw from hobbies and activities they once found fulfilling. There may also be a decline in social engagements with their family members or friends. This withdrawal is often a result of the cognitive challenges they face.
Care aides can provide companionship, playing an important role in encouraging and helping simplified versions of these activities. Hence, they can tailor engagements to the individual’s current abilities to promote a sense of accomplishment and joy.
Mood Swings and Agitation
Emotional fluctuations, including mood swings, anger, restlessness, and agitation, are common in individuals with Alzheimer’s. Providing emotional support involves creating a calm and reassuring environment, employing effective communication techniques, and offering companionship to alleviate feelings of isolation.
Making a Difference: Why Our Alzheimer’s Support is Essential
Annie’s Place recognizes the difficulties of caring for aging parents or loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease. Our caregivers are trained to meet the specific needs of your loved ones so they feel comfortable within the premises of their homes.
Beyond addressing physical needs, we adopt a holistic approach to care. We recognize that the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals with Alzheimer’s is equally important. Our in-home care service prioritizes promoting independence and fostering a supportive environment for your loved ones. This approach preserves their autonomy and cultivates a positive, empowering atmosphere.
Contact us today to provide compassionate care for your loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease.