INFORMATION FOR YOU

Caregivers, Friends and Family

If someone close to you has Alzheimer's disease,  you will probably have to face many challenges. Your life may be affected in many different ways. Know that you are not alone! The Alzheimer Society is there to provide you with information, counselling and support in these difficult times. 

Here are some practical suggestions.

Take Care of Yourself

You are the most important person in the life of the person with Alzheimer’s. He or she counts on you to provide care and a safe living environment. And to be able to do that, you must first take good care of yourself.

Use Your Imagination

Every person with Alzheimer’s is different. Talk with other caregivers; get ideas from them. Use your imagination and share some ideas of your own. Trust your judgement. You know the person with Alzheimer’s better than anyone else.

Plan Activities 

Focusing on the person’s current abilities, think of something that he or she might like to do, such as:

• Listening to music. It is a soothing activity, and everybody has a favourite tune;
• Remembering the past. Looking at photo albums may help to bring back happy memories;
• Helping with kitchen, housecleaning and gardening chores. The person can perform certain tasks as long as they are not beyond his or her capabilities;
• Moving around: Walking, dancing, swimming and simple exercise can be very enjoyable.

Routines and Reminders 

By establishing a regular routine for daily activities, such as dressing, grooming, bathing and eating, people with Alzheimer’s disease know what to expect, and can continue to do things by themselves. This helps them to feel better about themselves.