Things You Should Not Do with Seniors Who Has Alzheimer’s

Seniors with Alzheimer’s may face trouble managing simple tasks like bathing or dressing, which can cause difficulties for family caregivers. However, some families might find it challenging to manage the daily activities of seniors who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or any other forms of dementia. Reacting harshly to a situation can make seniors feel sad or hurtful. Here are a few things shared by Dallas home care experts every family caregivers should avoid when interacting with seniors.

Ignoring Them

People sometimes look away when they see or hear something uncomfortable. Interacting with seniors is better, especially if they have memory-related issues. Don’t ignore seniors even if they are unable to remember the names or fail to acknowledge known places. Seniors need attention and respect if they are on the verge of Alzheimer’s or any other age-related disease.

Using Elderspeak

Some family caregivers start talking to their senior loved one with Alzheimer’s like a baby, which is rude and demeaning. Alzheimer’s can cause several cognitive issues in seniors. However, seniors are adults and should always be treated like one with utmost care and respect. Use simple vocabulary and shorter sentences when interacting with seniors who have Alzheimer’s or related diseases.

Assuming They Are Confused

Alzheimer’s may lead to confusion in seniors, but they can understand complex things sometimes. Seniors with early-onset Alzheimer’s may be able to remember important things and should not be assumed as confused. It is better not to judge seniors with dementia that they have memory loss or merging two separate events out of confusion.

Using Terms of Endearment

Seniors may feel happy when they are called by their first name. Try to avoid using terms of endearment such as love, honey, or sweetheart, when speaking to seniors with Alzheimer’s. If you are an in-home caregiver for a senior with Alzheimer’s, you are missing a chance by referring to him or her with terms of endearment.

Asking Question about Them in Their Presence

Many family caregivers ask questions about their elderly loved one in their presence which is considered belittling. If family caregivers are speaking to their senior loved one’s doctor, they should always add him or her in their conversations. Ask a few simple questions to seniors with Alzheimer’s, to make sure they don’t feel avoided. If seniors are unable to answer correctly, then move onto the next person so they won’t feel left out.

Assuming They Are Making It Hard

People assume seniors are intentionally making it difficult for families. Seniors with Alzheimer’s may not remember simpler things or tasks due to the early symptoms, the reason family caregivers should understand their behavior is not deliberate. Seniors with Alzheimer’s might make mistakes and might be unable to control their actions.
The caregivers at Home Care Assistance Mammoth Lakes encourages families to interact with their senior loved one politely and keep him or her happy, especially if he or she has Alzheimer’s. It is important for family caregivers to ensure their loved one stays happy and independent at home to lead a cheerful life.