3 Tips To Help This March

Spring is coming! Regardless of what the weather may suggest, the first official day of spring is on March 20th. For those of us who started the countdown at the first sight of snowflakes, it has been a long winter.

Now it's on to some spring cleaning! When you’re de-cluttering your bookshelves and tossing out clothes that have been sitting at the back of your closet, consider getting back to the basics when it comes to your caregiving routine too! Here are a few tips that are important to remember no matter what stage of Alzheimer's you and your loved one may be experiencing:

1. Create a daily plan: Structured activities for those living with Alzheimer's can often reduce agitation. Consider your loved one's likes, dislikes, strengths, and abilities while taking into consideration how they used to structure their day! It's also crucial to get out and move. Spend some time with the sun on your face today!

2. Communication is key: While communication may become increasingly more difficult through the various stages of Alzheimer’s, there are ways you can help your loved one to express him or herself. AVOID arguing, criticizing or correcting, and distractions. DO focus on feelings and not facts, offer a guess as to what they’re trying to communicate, and offer comfort.

3. Nutrition, nutrition, nutrition: Remember that, for a person with Alzheimer's or dementia, poor nutrition may increase behavioral symptoms and cause weight loss. Encourage fluids and offer a balanced diet.

Alzheimer's is a difficult disease that often times takes patience and experience to maneuver. Starting with a clean slate this spring will make for a strong start to the year!