Archive for August 24th, 2007

Monica commented on the blog wondering how to deal with a family member having Alzheimer’s. All these entries on the blog are totally from a lay person/wife perspective so never to be taken as medical advice – it’s only what I think – so here goes:)

Treat the person with Alzheimer’s “as before” – don’t speak down to him/her.
Memories from the past seem vivid so find out what was important years ago and you will be able to always discuss something.

Don’t ask what he did today or what he ate for supper – my Man gets stressed out trying to remember and can’t remember minutes after the fact. (He is in mid-stage)

Phone often but keep the conversations short as that seems to be another stress (at least for mine)

Send or bring little gifts – favs here: beef jerky, books, candy, a bookmark – something just for him/her.

Arrange with the spouse to “drop in for coffee” and then either take him out for coffee/walk or a drive. Twenty minute alone is heaven and so appreciated.

Frame pics of family members – we keep a selection on our china cabinet in the kitchen – then just casually mention one or two.

Never take your eyes off the person if you go out for lunch – gone in a flash – personal experience:)

BTW, I don’t mean you have to bring gifts but a token is a big deal and so cherished – he will handle it over and over asking about it.

Anyone else have suggestions?