One of the best ways to provide Alzheimer’s care in Brandon, MS is ensuring that patients have a daily routine, which will provide the following benefits.
The Importance of Routine for Alzheimer’s
During the condition’s early stages, establishing a routine will make it easier for loved ones to navigate their environment in a manner which is predictable. It will also create a schedule which is essential since they will gradually lose their time awareness. Research shows that routine is usually stored in the extended memory, and since Alzheimer’s effects shorter term memories initially, it allows for continued functioning even during the middle disease stages.
Routine is also important because it encourages those with Alzheimer’s to continue doing things for themselves for a longer period of time. This will give them feelings of independence while boosting their self-esteem and allowing them to retain their skills for longer.
The Routine Should Align with Their Preferences
In order for routine to best most effective, it should always be in alignment with the natural interests of the recipient. The last thing you want to do is introduce substantial change into their lives. Change creates stress and for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia the stress can quickly lead to frustration and agitation. For instance, if they usually eat dessert after dinner or go outside on certain days, be sure to maintain this schedule.
Involve Them in Activities
Whenever possible, you’ll want to involve them in activities and resist the urge to do everything on their behalf. They should be encouraged to perform simple tasks like folding laundry or washing dishes, because even these basic functions will encourage motor skills and cognitive operation. Be sure to praise them for their efforts, even if the job is not done well, since this will reinforce their sense of accomplishment and independence. And should they become bored or irritable, you’ll want to give them a break or switch to a different task.
Remain Flexible
As Alzheimer’s progresses, the abilities of your loved one will shift. This is why it is essential to maintain your flexibility and make adjustments to their daily routine as needed. However, these changes should be done gradually so as not to disturb them too much. This might require you to do more yourself, at least for a time, but eventually they should be able to take over a bit.
Utilize Physical Fitness
It is highly recommended to incorporate physical fitness into their daily routine. However, you want to keep the exercises basic and light. Rather than weight lifting or other strenuous routines, you’ll want to start off with simple things like walking outside during specific times of day, especially if the weather is pleasant. They can also engage in activities such as tai chi and yoga.
Therapeutic activities such as music and dance are highly recommended. Studies have discovered that the sound and melodies may evoke emotions while stirring up memories, which can be greatly beneficial. Additionally, music seems to spark cerebral activity and will stimulate certain areas of the brain.
