9 A’s of Alzheimer’s Care from the Texas Advocates for Nursing Home Residents

22 Sep 9 A’s of Alzheimer’s Care from the Texas Advocates for Nursing Home Residents

Having a loved one in a nursing home or assisted living facility can provide peace of mind and assurance that they are properly taken of. This is especially true if your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related illnesses. The Texas Advocates for Nursing Home Residents suggests these tips.

1. Arguments are useless. The more you argue, rationalize and reason, the more your loved one will dig her heels in. Find ways to let them be right.

2. Allow him as much freedom as possible. People with Alzheimer’s resent their loss of autonomy. Try to walk the fine line of keeping them safe and making them happy.

3. Actions, facial expressions and your tone of voice speak louder than words. What you communicate nonverbally is critical.

4. Appreciate good moments and good days. Learn to cherish the little things.

5. Appropriateactivities help pass time, reduce agitation and reduce boredom. What your loved one says she can do and what they actually can do are not the same thing.

6. Agitationcan be reduced when the caregiver stays calm, reassuring and respectful.

7. Adults are still adults. Always treat them with dignity and respect, but remember that your number one goal is to keep them safe.

8. Adapt because your loved one cannot change. Because they can no longer do all the things they once could, you must adapt.

9. Assess and reassess often. What is safe and effective for now, may not be so later. Keep watching and evaluating.

For more tips visit the website for Alzheimer’s Aid Society of Northern California.

We also recommend getting to know the staff at the facility, which means everyone from the director down to the staff that have daily contact with your loved one. Stop by unannounced from time to time even if you don’t stay long and keep a close eye on the physical aspects of your loved one. Unexplained bruises, bed sores, repeated accidents and medicine mishaps are all signs that perhaps there might be negligence or abuse going on at a facility. If you suspect negligence or abuse, fill out our free case evaluation and talk to our legal experts.