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DAILY ROUTINES
Daily
routines are sacred for most people. When caring for individuals
with dementia, sticking to a routine is not only sacred, but a
necessity.
Since change is difficult for individuals with Alzheimer's
disease and related illnesses, a structured schedule can meet
two objectives: relieving caregiver stress and helping
individuals maintain their abilities.
Consider this:
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Involve
the individual in daily tasks. Disrupting his usual habits
may result in an inability to perform that activity. For
example, if you begin dressing him, he might soon forget how
to dress himself. Participation also helps to maintain the
person's self-esteem.
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Be
realistic about what the individual can do given his degree
of impairment. This will result in less frustration on both
your parts.
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Bathing should follow the individual's routine prior to
onset of the disease unless specific hygiene needs arise. If
they previously showered in the evening, they should
continue that pattern. However, keep in mind that changes
may be necessary due to the progression of the disease. For
example, someone who normally bathes at night might have to
switch to the morning if they wake up soiled or if they are
experiencing "sundowning,"
or behavioral problems toward evening.
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Repeating
the same act may be meaningful for the individual and
provide relief of tension. For example, he may spend 20
minutes tearing a tissue or wiping the kitchen counter. If
the activity does not seem to be upsetting him, let him
continue. If it upsets you, try to gently redirect his
activity by giving him something else to do.
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Be
consistent. If you say that you are going to do something,
follow through with it.
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