How To Help A Loved One With Alzheimer’s Bathe, Dress, Eat And Sleep

If you’re balancing caregiving with work commitments, professional services might be worth exploring. At Care Concierge, we offer solutions tailored to families in need of extra support—caregivers, nurses, nursing homes, assisted living services, and more. Read our detailed guide here.

For the wider picture, read our step-by-step guide to caring for a senior with Alzheimer’s, and try these 20 activities to keep your loved one engaged.

To plan help at home as needs grow, including typical costs in Malaysia, read our guide to dementia care at home in Malaysia.

For now, here’s how you can help your loved one manage these daily tasks effectively.

Bathing

Bathing can feel frightening for your loved one with Alzheimer’s, but planning ahead can ease the process.

• Choose a time when your loved one is calm, and create a routine.
• Understand their fear or discomfort, and approach the situation with patience and respect.
• Clearly explain each step during the bath, involving them as much as possible.
• Ensure the water temperature is comfortable, and have extra towels and robes ready to keep them warm.
• Use safety measures such as non-slip mats and a shower bench. Never leave them alone in the bathroom.
• If bathing is too distressing, consider a sponge bath and adjust the frequency as needed.

Dressing

Choosing clothes and managing zippers or buttons can be confusing for someone with Alzheimer’s. These tips can help:

• Opt for easy-to-wear clothing like elastic waistbands instead of buttons or zippers.
• Establish a dressing routine by choosing a consistent time each day.
• Encourage independence by allowing your loved one to assist, ensuring there’s enough time to avoid rushing.
• Limit clothing options to avoid overwhelming choices. If they prefer specific outfits, purchase identical ones.
• Lay clothes out in the order they should be worn, and provide simple step-by-step guidance if needed.

 

Eating

Alzheimer’s can affect eating habits, with some seniors over-eating while others avoid food entirely. Here’s how to help them maintain a balanced diet:

• Treat mealtimes as a calm, interactive experience. Avoid rushing them.
• Minimise distractions like noise to create a soothing environment.
• Serve meals at consistent times but stay flexible if their needs change.
• Provide a limited selection of colourful, appetising food in small portions throughout the day.
• Use bowls instead of plates and cups with lids or straws for easier handling.
• Monitor for choking risks and ensure regular dental check-ups.

Establishing Healthy Sleeping Patterns

Many seniors, including those with Alzheimer’s, struggle with sleep. You can help by:

• Encouraging light physical activity and avoiding long daytime naps. Short power naps are encouraged
• Scheduling heavy tasks like bathing or family meals earlier in the day.
• Creating a calm bedtime atmosphere with dim lights, soothing music, or other relaxing rituals.
• Establishing a consistent sleep routine and avoiding caffeine-rich drinks.
• Use nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms if they are afraid of the dark.

In short, caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is challenging, but understanding their behaviour and feelings can make a world of difference. Focus on creating a safe, predictable, and supportive environment. For more caregiving tips, read our blog here.

If you want to learn caregiving for your elderly loved ones or improve your skills, explore our Care Academy course list. From short courses to our comprehensive Mastery in Caregiving programme, participants are awarded the Care Academy certificate upon completion and the skills to provide senior care correctly.

Contact Us Today
If you’re looking for a long-term or part-time carer for the elderly and home nursing services, we provide caregivers, private nurses, and therapists in Malaysia. Contact our Care Advisors at +6018 9815 128 or message us using the chat box on this page. Let us provide your loved ones with the care they deserve.

Elevate Your Caregiving Skills with Care Concierge Academy

If you’re looking to improve your caregiving skills, consider our Care Academy short courses for family caregivers or explore our Mastery in Caregiving certificate programme, jointly awarded by the Centre for Corporate and Community Development (CCCD) at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and Care Concierge Academy. Our Care Academy offers comprehensive resources, including refresher courses for experienced caregivers, a “Positive approach to dementia” course, and guidance for those interested in joining a professional caregiving course after SPM. Explore our Care Academy course list to kickstart your journey in caregiving.

 

First Published on May 19th, 2023