World Alzheimer’s Month
World Alzheimer’s Month is an annual international event, always held in September and run by Alzheimer’s Disease International, (ADI).
Alzheimer’s disease is a physically illness which damages a person’s brain. This eventually leads to dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease affects everyone differently. However, it has some common early symptoms:
- memory problems
- thinking and reasoning difficulties
- language problems
- changes to how they see and hear things.
- changes in mood
The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease progress over time as the disease is classes as a progressive disease, it is important to support people living with this disease.
Here are a few ways you can help someone living with Alzheimer’s disease during the different stages:
EARLY STAGE OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
- Include the person in conversations.
- Take the time to listen and provide plenty of time to to respond.
- It is best not to interrupt.
- Adding humour throughout the day helps lighten the mood.
MIDDLE STAGE
- Engage with them in a quiet space.
- Speak slow and clear so they can understand you better.
- Be patient and kind.
- Ask only one question at a time. Yes or no questions are best.
- Try not to use any accusatory language.
- Visual cues may be a good addition to words.
- Sometimes written notes are more helpful than spoken words.
LATE STAGE
- Identify yourself when approaching.
- Use nonverbal communication such as facial expressions and pointing to things in the room.
- Treat them with respect.
- Using senses to communicate with them is very helpful as well.
Sources
Alzheimer’s disease | Alzheimer’s Society (alzheimers.org.uk)