Caregiving

A caregiver is anyone who takes care of the needs of an individual who cannot physically or mentally do so on their own. A caregiver could be a spouse, a child, a grandchild or a close personal friend. The caregiver has been chosen because the patient trusts them to care for them and even make decisions when they cannot.

Laws in some states are not as progressed as others. The caregiver should be sure to be placed on a medical power of attorney for the patient. In some states, unless the caregiver is on the medical power of attorney, a spouse or a child, the medical staff cannot discuss care with you. Do this early in the diagnosis, when the patient is still of sound mind. There are bills being introduced in the federal government to help caregivers be apart of care but until that time a medical power of attorney is your best course of action.

Get an advanced directive/DNR. Allow the patient to decide for themselves what they want to go through at the end of care.

In early stages, most patients will be able to go about daily life with only minor inconveniences due to memory. The disease progresses at different speeds per patient, however, it is important to be part of their life before the disease takes hold. Not just for their benefit but for yours as well.

Once the disease progresses the patient will eventually need help in everyday tasks. This will be unsettling to the caregiver and upsetting to the patient. Remain empathetic to their situation as they may be confused and afraid. Here are a few tips for care:

• Remain calm, the calmer you are the more calm the patient will be.
• Keep the person as active as long as possible. Remaining active can prolong memory but be realistic about how much the person can physically do. Walking is good for everyone.
• Talk to the patient in a clear, reassuring voice. The patient is more than likely frustrated and confused.
• Be gentle and respectful, go through step by step instructions of what you are doing and why.
• More than likely you will have to repeat yourself, many times. Try not to show aggravation as it will transfer to the patient.
• Give them choices but not to many. Keep choices for food or activities to two or three.
• Have a routine, grooming, eating, bathing and activities should be done at the same time each day.
• Consider a pill dispenser that you can find on Amazon. This can help remind the patient, and the caregiver, to administer daily medications.
• Buy loose and comfortable clothing for the patient as this will help with dressing.
• Allow the patient to do as much as possible for as long as possible.
• Encourage conversation for as long as possible. Stimulating the brain can help prolong memory. Use photo albums, books, and personal items if communication becomes difficult.