Small Steps Make a Big Difference in Daily Life

In addition to getting more out of your loved one's Alzheimer's medication, there are other steps you can take that may help improve quality of life.

For example, the tips and strategies below can help make your loved one more cooperative when performing daily activities like eating, bathing and communicating.

Mealtime Tips:

• Serve only one food at a time so the person with Alzheimer's disease doesn't have to be confused by choices. Try a vegetable dish followed by a meat dish.
• Set the table with only one utensil to reduce frustration on your loved one's part. For example, provide just a spoon if you're serving oatmeal or cereal.¹

Personal Hygiene Tips:

• Limit clothing choices to a few types of pants and shirts. If your loved one has a favorite outfit, consider buying two or three identical sets.
• Involve your loved one in the bathing process to give him/her some sense of control and independence. Have him/her hold the washcloth or shampoo bottle.

Communication Tips:

• Look for the feelings behind the words. Many times, it's how something is said rather than what is being said. Your loved one's tone of voice and other actions may help you understand what he/she is really trying to say.
• Find the key words in nonsensical statements. Repeated words or phrases may sound nonsensical to you, but they may have meaning to your loved one. Try to listen for key words, which might reveal the true message he/she is trying to convey.²

For more caregiving tips like these, sign up for the Combination Care for Alzheimer's Program.