Caregiver's Corner

Your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease has a lot of living to do. Help keep the LIFE in the living by participating in activities that are enriching to both of you:

· Simple physical and recreational activities such as taking regular walks along familiar routes help establish routines, work out anxiety and maintain health.

· Social time is important, Keeping the events small and familiar will help your loved one benefit most from the time. Prepare friends and family members to automatically provide helpful cues about names and history together, rather than “testing” your loved one with “who am I?” or “don’t you remember me?” challenges.

· Creative activities such as painting, drawing and scrapbooking and participating in cultural events can help your loved one take advantage of natural creativity to express their thoughts and feelings. I’m Still Here by John Zeisel is a wonderful resource for helping caregivers maximize use of arts to help family members keep the LIFE in living!

· Have quiet time. Sometimes you don’t need to say a word, just sit with each other.

· Task-Related activities will help your loved one continue to contribute. This can be helping prepare a meal, dusting around the house, or folding sheets.

· Consider modifying activities that you and your loved one used to enjoy together.