Ways You Can Show Your Support of the Alzheimer's Patient and the Caregiver

At some point in your life, someone you know may become affected by Alzheimer's disease. And if it is a close friend or family member, you can show your support of the Alzheimer's patient and the caregiver through many ways. Alzheimer's can be an isolating disease, but with your help and support, it doesn't have to be. Read below for some useful tips on ways you can touch the lives of the caregiver as well as the patient with the disease.

Don't be antisocial or avoid the person in your life with Alzheimer's disease. Go visit them and let them know you are thinking about them. Talk with the caregiver and see when the optimal times to visit are. Sometimes, Alzheimer's sufferers might be more refreshed in the mornings or right after an afternoon nap. Tiring them out often exacerbates the symptoms of the disease. Patience and a friendly ear are essential in your visit. If they are still relatively coherent, they may need to unburden themselves to a caring friend.

Be prepared to explain why you are there to visit, if they do not recognize you. Sometimes, you may have to do this several times during the course of your stay. Talk using simpler sentences and use body movements like hand gestures to make a point in conversation. While they may not understand some of the words you are saying, many can still interpret body language up to a point. And allow the Alzheimer's patient plenty of time to answer questions or make conversation. Don't feel shy about prompting them with a word or two if their train of thought seems to wander.

Laugh and reminisce about past happenings that you may have shared together. They may not remember the situation, but they can certainly enjoy the story! Dig out picture albums and talk about the people and places in the photos. Share an activity whether it is a craft or a walk in the park or grabbing an ice cream cone. Most of all, hugs and smiles can break through the barriers that sometimes words cannot.

Supporting the caregiver is also important. Sometimes, dealing with someone who has a sickness can be isolating and they might feel stranded without support. Throw them a lifeline and listen. Sit down with a cup of coffee and let them talk to you. Help them with errands. If you are at the store, give them a call and see if they need anything. Ask if you can help around the house, whether it be mowing the lawn or cooking a meal.

Offer to sit with their loved one afflicted with Alzheimer's so that they can go do something for themselves. Having alone time is essential for emotional well-being and they might need the break. Giving them the gift of time works wonders and they can come back to their role as caregiver with more enthusiasm. Most importantly, keep in touch, especially if you don't live close to them. A phone call or letter works wonders and helps the caregiver feel less isolated from the world.

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