The Alzheimer's Caregiver Guide: Tips and Information for the Caregiver on MedicineNet.com

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Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide (cont.)

Communicating with a Person with Alzheimer's Disease

Trying to communicate with a person who has Alzheimer's disease can be a challenge. Both understanding and being understood may be difficult.

Choose simple words and short sentences and use a gentle, calm tone of voice.
Avoid talking to the person with Alzheimer's disease like a baby or talking about the person as if he or she weren't there.
Minimize distractions and noise - such as the television or radio - to help the person focus on what you are saying.
Call the person by name, making sure you have his or her attention before speaking.
Allow enough time for a response. Be careful not to interrupt.
If the person with Alzheimer's disease is struggling to find a word or communicate a thought, gently try to provide the word he or she is looking for.
Try to frame questions and instructions in a positive way.

Bathing a Person with Alzheimer's Disease

While some people with Alzheimer's disease don't mind bathing, for others it is a frightening, confusing experience. Advance planning can help make bath time better for both of you.

Plan the bath or shower for the time of day when the person is most calm and agreeable. Be consistent. Try to develop a routine.
Respect the fact that bathing is scary and uncomfortable for some people with Alzheimer's disease. Be gentle and respectful. Be patient and calm.
Tell the person what you are going to do, step by step, and allow him or her to do as much as possible.
Prepare in advance. Make sure you have everything you need ready and in the bathroom before beginning. Draw the bath ahead of time.
Be sensitive to the temperature. Warm up the room beforehand if necessary and keep extra towels and a robe nearby. Test the water temperature before beginning the bath or shower.
Minimize safety risks by using a handheld showerhead, shower bench, grab bars, and nonskid bath mats. Never leave the person alone in the bath or shower.
Try a sponge bath. Bathing may not be necessary every day. A sponge bath can be effective between showers or baths.

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Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide (cont.)

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Communicating with a Person with Alzheimer's Disease

Bathing a Person with Alzheimer's Disease

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