How to deal with an elderly relative suffering from Alzheimer’s?

How to deal with an elderly relative suffering from Alzheimer’s?

This questioning is perfectly normal, since Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult for both the sufferer and those close to him or her. Feeling as though your memory is constantly playing tricks on you is not easy. So is watching an elderly relative gradually lose his or her autonomy and experience frequent memory problems.

Fortunately, there are ways to be better prepared for this reality. By understanding how to deal with an elderly relative suffering from Alzheimer’s, you can better accompany them and offer them the support they need.

Memory loss or Alzheimer’s?

Occasional memory loss can happen to anyone. With age, some forgetfulness becomes more frequent, without necessarily being linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Before you start worrying, it’s important to find out whether your loved one’s forgetfulness is really interfering with his or her daily routine. When in doubt, it’s essential to consult a doctor for a proper assessment and, if necessary, a diagnosis.

Memory loss associated with normal aging

As we age, it becomes normal to forget certain details or take longer to retrieve information. Forgetting a password, hesitating before dialing a number or searching for a name for a few seconds can all be part of normal aging.

The brain, like the rest of the body, undergoes certain changes over time. Although this can be worrying, memory loss does not automatically mean Alzheimer’s disease.

It is estimated that around 40% of the elderly experience some form of age-related memory impairment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 5-8% of the elderly suffer from Alzheimer’s or another neurocognitive disorder.

Alzheimer’s disease and its symptoms

Unlike the forgetfulness associated with normal aging, Alzheimer’s disease generally has a greater impact on the sufferer’s daily life and independence.

This neurocognitive disease can make certain previously simple and familiar tasks difficult.

Here are some signs that may be associated with Alzheimer’s disease:

• Difficulty learning new things;
• Frequent forgetfulness;
• Difficulty remembering recent events;
• Loss of autonomy in certain daily tasks;
• Disorientation or confusion.

These symptoms do not automatically mean Alzheimer’s disease, as there are many possible causes of memory impairment. A medical consultation is essential to obtain a clear diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Approach the subject with delicacy

Alzheimer’s disease progressively leads to cognitive changes and loss of autonomy. Some sufferers may have difficulty recognizing their limitations, or experience a certain amount of denial.

It can therefore be tricky to broach this subject with an elderly relative.

Is Alzheimer’s hereditary?

The hereditary form of Alzheimer’s disease remains relatively rare, accounting for around 1% of cases. In the majority of cases, the onset of the disease cannot be explained by heredity alone.

How to talk about Alzheimer’s with an elderly relative?

Here are a few tips for approaching the subject with gentleness and respect:

• Choose a quiet moment conducive to discussion;
• Use a reassuring tone and positive wording;
• Avoid blame or confrontation;
• Observe the person’s non-verbal language and reactions;
• Be patient and a good listener.

Rather than focusing on limitations, it may be preferable to present the solutions available and the advantages of adapted support.

It’s also important not to be alone in this situation. Family caregivers, healthcare professionals and other specialists can offer support.

At Visavie, our advisors and professional caregivers are available to answer your questions and support you.

Supporting your elderly relative with Alzheimer’s

Can a person with Alzheimer’s disease stay at home? The answer depends on a number of factors, including level of autonomy and available support.

In all cases, appropriate support generally becomes necessary as the disease progresses.

Home help as a solution

Some people living with Alzheimer’s can continue to live at home for some time, provided they have adequate care.

Caregivers often play an essential role, but support is also available through professional services.

Visavie offers personalized in-home care to help seniors with Alzheimer’s evolve in a safe environment adapted to their needs.

Accompanying a loved one to an adapted residence

In some situations, moving to a specialized residence may be the best option to ensure your loved one’s safety and well-being.

A residence adapted for people with Alzheimer’s provides access to care, specialized supervision and a safe environment.

Despite the disease, it is still possible to maintain a good quality of life thanks to appropriate support.

Visavie offers a free accompaniment service to help families find a residence adapted to the needs of their elderly loved one.

Whether you’re looking for home care or a seniors’ residence, the Visavie team can help you provide your loved one with a safe, humane living environment adapted to his or her reality.

Are you looking for a senior living community in Quebec and want to understand the financial assistance you’re eligible for? Our Visavie housing advisors are here to help you find the right community for your needs and budget—at no cost. Service available 7 days a week.