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Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide (cont.)

Visiting the Doctor with a Person with Alzheimer's Disease

It is important that the person with Alzheimer's disease receive regular medical care. Advance planning can help the trip to the doctor's office go more smoothly.

  • Try to schedule the appointment for the person's best time of day. Also, ask the office staff what time of day the office is least crowded.

  • Let the office staff know in advance that this person may be confused because of Alzheimer's disease. Ask them for help to make the visit go smoothly.

  • Don't tell the person about the appointment until the day of the visit or even shortly before it is time to go. Be positive and matter-of-fact.

  • Bring along something for the person to eat and drink and any materials or activities that he or she enjoys.

  • Have a friend or another family member go with you on the trip, so that one of you can be with the person while the other speaks with the doctor.

  • Take a brief summary listing the person's medical history, primary care doctor, and current medications.

Coping with Holidays for Caregivers and a Person with Alzheimer's Disease

Holidays are bittersweet for many Alzheimer's disease caregivers. The happy memories of the past contrast with the difficulties of the present, and extra demands on time and energy can seem overwhelming. Finding a balance between rest and activity can help.

  • Keep or adapt family traditions that are important to you. Include the person with Alzheimer's as much as possible.

  • Recognize that things will be different, and be realistic about what you can do.

  • Encourage friends and family to visit. Limit the number of visitors at one time, and try to schedule visits during the time of day when the person is at his or her best.

  • Avoid crowds, changes in routine, and strange places that may cause confusion or agitation.

  • Do your best to enjoy yourself. Try to find time for the holiday things you like to do.

  • Ask a friend or family member to spend time with the person while you are out.

  • At larger gatherings such as weddings or family reunions, try to have a space available where the person can rest, be alone, or spend some time with a smaller number of people, if needed.

Patient Comments

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Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver - Experience Question: Please describe your experience with an Alzheimer's disease patient.
Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide - Diagnosis Question: Has a friend or relative been diagnosed with Alzheimer's? Please share your story.
Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide - Communicating Question: Please share tips for communicating with a relative or friend who has Alzheimer's.
Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide - Eating Question: Getting an Alzheimer's patient to eat can be difficult. Please share tips for meal ideas and routines.
Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide - Activities Question: In what ways do you help your friend or loved one with Alzheimer's stay active and engaged?
Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide - Sleeping Question: Do you deal with a restless Alzheimer's patient? How do you make sure he/she gets sleep at night?
Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide - Wandering Question: Alzheimer's patients tend to wander. What steps have you taken to ensure his/her safety?
Alzheimer's Disease Patient Caregiver Guide - Nursing Homes Question: At some point an Alzheimer's patient will need assisted or residential care. How did you select one?
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