Alzheimer’s is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States, and Eckels added it’s the only one among the top 10 in America that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed. More than five million people are now living with it. Someone develops the disease every 67 seconds. It claims the lives of 500,000 Americans each year.
There were 15.5 million caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients in 2013.
When communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s, Eckels suggests approaching the person from the front, because they often have a loss of peripheral vision. Identify yourself — don’t assume the person knows who you are or why you’re there. Stay at eye level, use short sentences and short words, soften your voice and speak slower than normal.
When asked about handling repetitive questions that often come from Alzheimer’s patients, Eckels advised writing down answers, changing the setting of the conversation, reassuring the patient and reducing their stress.
Eckels also recommends when visiting, hug the person to check for proper clothing, regular bathing practices, stress levels and any weight loss or gain. She also advises looking into their eyes to see if they’re getting the proper amount of sleep. But she emphasizes being careful, adding “Remember you’re disrupting their routine, which can worsen memory loss.”
Visits can also be a good time to check for any vehicle damage and gauge whether the patient should be driving.
During family visits — and especially around the holidays — Eckels pointed out it may be beneficial to have fewer people at gatherings and events, simplifying activities, allowing for rest periods and serving non-alcoholic beverages to avoid interference with medications.
At gift-giving occasions, Eckels says you may consider providing services like car maintenance, cleaning, medic alert bracelets and even filling in for caregivers. Items that stimulate the mind — such as brain games, crossword puzzles and large-print books — are also good ideas.
More information and advice is available at the Alzheimer’s Association website, alz.org/dayton, or through the organization’s 24/7 helpline, which is 800-272-3900.
The Miami Valley Chapter serves Champaign, Clark, Darke, Greene, Logan, Miami, Montgomery, Preble and Shelby counties.
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