People with Alzheimer’s disease eventually need help with activities of daily
living. Depending on his or her level of independence, a person with Alzheimer’s
disease may need help with personal care activities, including eating,
bathing, shaving, and using the toilet. To assist with these activities,
caregivers need knowledge, skill, and patience.
Following are some tips for caring for your loved one’s personal needs:
General tips- Establish a routine. Schedule grooming activities for the same
time and same place each day. For example, brush teeth after meals,
or schedule baths for the mornings or evenings. Choose the most
relaxed time of the day for bathing and grooming.
- Respect privacy. Close doors and blinds. Cover the person with a
towel or bathrobe.
- Encourage independence as much as possible. This will help to
promote a sense of accomplishment.
- Keep in mind the person’s abilities. Allow enough time to
complete each task; for example, brushing his or her hair or teeth.
- Give encouragement and support as he or she completes tasks.
Acknowledge his or her efforts when completed. "You did a nice job
brushing your hair today."
- Tell the person what you are doing. "I am going to wash your hair now."
- If the person can dress himself or herself, lay out the clothes
in the order they are to be put on. Clothing that is easy to put on, with few buttons, is best.
Eating- Be sure to
provide your loved one with a nutritious diet and plenty of healthy
fluids, such as water or juice.
- Encourage independent eating if your loved one is able. Consider
serving finger foods that are easier for the person to handle and eat.
- Adaptive equipment, such as plate guards or silverware with
specially designed handles, is available for individuals who have
difficulty holding or using utensils.
- Do not force feed. Try to encourage the person to eat, and try
to find out why they do not want to eat. Remember to treat the
person as an adult, not as a child.
Bathing- A complete bath may not be needed every day. A sponge bath may enough.
- Always check the temperature of the water in the bath or shower.
- If giving a bath in the tub, try using a bath chair with
handrails. Also, place rubber mats in the tub to prevent slipping.
- Make sure the bathroom is warm and well-lit.
- Remove or secure throw rugs to prevent falls.
- If the person is heavy or can offer little help, special equipment may be needed. Your doctor can give you advice on how to
safely bathe your loved one.