Staying independent for as long as possible is key for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Yet as caregivers it is easy to begin compensating for your loved one. It may start by finishing sentences for them; tying shoes; buttoning shirts; feeding them and doing other things to “help” or get things done more quickly, but the reality is that the longer someone is able to do things for themselves the better.
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are progressive diseases, which mean that over time symptoms will increase, usually causing the person to lose the ability to perform certain tasks. That is why it is very important to help those living with the disease remain as independent and to focus on what they can do, not on what they can’t.
Here are a few ways that you can help your loved one stay independent:
Routine and schedule: People living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia tend to do better when they follow a routine such as waking, then eating, followed by brushing their teeth and washing their face. In addition, sticking to a basic daily schedule can also lesson anxiety and help maintain their sense of security.
Grooming – As the disease progresses people may find it hard to button clothes. By switching to elastic pants, pullover shirts, slip-on shoes and Velcro jackets you may find that your loved one can get ready on their own for longer. If making simple decisions like what to wear is too overwhelming, limit their clothing choices or layout their clothes in the order that they should wear them. You may also want to consider creating cue or picture cards that visually describe their morning routine.
Eating – Some people develop anxiety issues and have a hard time sitting down for a meal or manipulating silverware. By switching to more finger friendly foods such as sandwiches, pitas or wraps you can make sure that your loved one is still eating nutritiously and is not embarrassed by being fed or spilling.
Bathroom – If incontinence becomes an issue label your bathroom door(s) and make sure that you leave the lights on in your bathroom(s). Sometimes just seeing the toilet can trigger the need to urinate. You may also want to consider getting on a schedule so that your loved one’s body will “know” when to go. However realize that keeping to that schedule is very important and can cause your loved one anxiety and potential accidents if not followed.
Activity – those living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia have the ability to be socially active far into their disease and should be encouraged to continue with activities. The main thing to remember is that an activity should be failure free and that whatever the outcome it should be celebrated. One thing you might notice is that as the disease progresses the person’s attention span shortens. If this happens, it is a good idea to set-up a hobby station that the person can easily drop-in and out of several times a day. If reading is an issue, make sure your lighting and print size is increased, look for short stories, books on cd or use simple picture books.
By focusing on what they can do and by taking the time to let them succeed at their own pace you are handing them the keys to maintaining their independence and dignity. The two greatest gifts that anyone can give!
My father has been here only a little over 2 months. The positive change in him has been DRAMATIC! I would HIGHLY recommend Azura........ I would give it 10 stars if they allowed it! This is the premier facility for any family member with cognitive issues! They do treat residents like family, believe it!
Review posted by Stephen Diedrich
The staff at Oak Creek are all fabulous! It takes special people to care for our loved ones. If has been a trying year for all and the staff at oak creek get a shout out for their kindness and compassion they give to my mom and the others. They have all gone above and beyond to make things seem as normal as possible for my mom! All of the staff have been so helpful and kind! They are all fabulous!!
Review posted by Mary Kubacki
"We want to thank you for the loving special care you took of our mother, Diane. It was truly mom's home and you all became part of our family. Everything was home for her....from the beautiful rooms, large sunny windows all around, good food made with love, fun and personal activities from people who really loved our mom. We would highly recommend your facility to anyone. The staff from the director, to the doctor, to the nurse, to the caregivers and the maintenance man were all extremely helpful, caring, loving and professional. There are not enough words to say how much we appreciate all of you. Your exceptional care, kindness, and love were beyond anything we could have imagined. You were part of our family, and we will miss you." - Gail Sommers and Deborah Guse
Review posted by Gail Sommers & Deborah Guse
Just moved my sister-in-law to Azura Stoughton on February 12th. I feel like I’ve found a little piece of dementia heaven. The staff has gone way beyond my expectations to meet her needs and take time to know her. Anyone who has dementia deserves the TLC they receive at Azura. I’m so impressed.
Review posted by Gail Aaroen
Thank you to the Azura Memory Care team, Sheboygan location for the amazing, loving care they provided my dad. They truly loved and cared for my dad as if he was their own. It is such a warm, loving, family environment I only wish we would have moved my dad there years earlier!
Review posted by Patti Bunch
Review posted by Ron Paxson
I have enjoyed working with patients at Azura Care as a Physical Therapist Assistant. The staff has been very helpful in sharing important information about the patients to make their therapy sessions as productive as possible. They are open to learning techniques to help keep patients safe and improve their ability to perform daily tasks with less assistance. Their interactions with patients show caring and compassion with a focus on the needs of each individual to enjoy the best quality of life possible.
Review posted by Barb Eisenberg
The journey of caregiving for my Aunt started over 4 years ago. It has been a very long difficult journey. It is hard to watch and frustrating to watch a loved one decline, as well as for them to live the decline. My Aunt found her final peace at Azura Memory Care in Sheboygan. It was not only her peace but mine as well. I no longer had to worry about her care as I could see that she was loved by her Azura family. She passed away on June 21 and they knew how important that it was for me to be there, but I also found peace that if I was not there, she was with family that loved her. No words can express the appreciation for the care, compassion and love that they have for all their residents. God has opened many doors through my journey and the doors at Azura were truly a gift from God. This family made a difference in a long journey. I will always have them in my thoughts and prayers. They are where and doing what they are meant to do!