Anyone caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease likely can relate to the late Nancy Reagan, who called the illness suffered by former President Ronald Reagan "a truly long, long goodbye."
"In many respects, Mrs. Reagan was the optimal caregiver, providing love and support for the president in a fashion similar to many other Americans whose families deal with this difficult diagnosis," said Mayo Clinic neurologist Dr. Ronald Petersen.
In 2015, an estimated 5.3 million Americans had Alzheimer's disease, according to the Alzheimer's Association. As the disease progresses, once-simple tasks become difficult or impossible.
Practical tips can help your loved maintain a sense of independence and dignity.
To limit challenges resulting from Alzheimer's:
• Schedule wisely. Establish a routine to make each day more predictable and less confusing. Schedule the most difficult tasks, such as bathing or medical appointments, for the time of day when your loved one is calmest.
• Adapt your routine, as needed. For example, if your loved one insists on wearing the same outfit every day, consider buying a few identical outfits. When your loved one is bathing, switch the worn outfit for a clean one.
• Take your time. Expect things to take longer than they once did. Schedule more time to complete tasks, so you don't need to hurry your loved one.
• Involve your loved one. Allow them to do as much as possible with the least amount of assistance. For example, perhaps your loved one can dress alone if you lay out the clothes in the order they go on.
