Quick answer
To cope with Alzheimer’s disease, learn how the disease progresses, keep a simple daily routine, communicate with short and calm sentences, make the home safe, plan legal and financial matters early, and get support for yourself. Support groups, the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) and adult day health care programs help families share the care and avoid burnout.
Key takeaways
- Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease and the most common cause of dementia.
- Routines, patience and a safe home reduce confusion and stress.
- Plan legal, financial and care decisions early, while your loved one can take part.
- Caregivers need support too: helplines, support groups and respite care.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease and the most common cause of dementia. It affects memory, thinking and behavior, and symptoms get worse over time. An estimated 7.2 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia, and most are cared for at home by family.
10 practical tips for coping with Alzheimer’s disease
1. Give yourself time to accept the diagnosis
Shock, sadness, anger and denial are normal. Talk with family, a counselor or a support group. Accepting the diagnosis helps you plan and focus on the time you have together.
2. Learn about the stages of the disease
Knowing what to expect in the early, middle and late stages helps you prepare for changes in memory, behavior and care needs. Ask the doctor questions and use trusted sources like the Alzheimer’s Association.
3. Keep a simple, predictable routine
Do meals, bathing, activities and bedtime at about the same time each day. Routines lower anxiety and confusion. Break tasks into small steps and allow extra time.
4. Communicate with patience
Use short, simple sentences, ask one question at a time and give choices between two options. Make eye contact, speak calmly and avoid arguing or correcting. Respond to the feeling behind the words.
5. Make the home safe
Remove trip hazards, add grab bars and night lights, lock up medicines and cleaning products, and consider door alarms if your loved one may wander. An occupational therapist can recommend changes.
6. Plan ahead for legal and financial decisions
While your loved one can still take part, set up a durable power of attorney, an advance health care directive and a plan for finances. This protects everyone later.
7. Keep them active and engaged
Music, walks, simple chores, photo albums and familiar hobbies support mood and well-being. The Alzheimer’s Association suggests planning activities around the person’s interests and abilities.
8. Watch for other health problems
Sudden changes in behavior can signal pain, an infection, dehydration or medicine side effects. Keep regular doctor visits and watch for signs of depression, which is common in people with dementia.
9. Join a support group
Talking with other families who understand can ease stress and give you practical ideas. The Alzheimer’s Association Helpline is free and available 24/7 at 800-272-3900, with help in more than 200 languages.
10. Take care of yourself and share the care
Caregiving is a marathon. Ask family to share tasks, keep your own medical appointments and use respite care so you can rest. The Family Caregiver Alliance offers resources for caregivers.
How adult day health care helps families living with Alzheimer’s
An adult day health care center gives people with memory loss a safe, structured day with trained staff, while family caregivers get regular time to work and rest. At Health Guard in North Hollywood, we serve seniors who experience memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, with nursing supervision, occupational and speech therapy, meals and activities. In California, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are among the eligibility categories for Medi-Cal’s CBAS program.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to cope with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis?
Give yourself time to process the news, learn about the disease, plan legal and financial matters early, and build a support network of family, doctors, support groups and day programs.
How do I talk to someone with Alzheimer’s?
Use short, simple sentences, ask one question at a time, offer two choices, speak calmly and avoid arguing. Focus on the feelings behind what the person says.
Is there a helpline for Alzheimer’s caregivers?
Yes. The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline is free at 800-272-3900, with help available in more than 200 languages.
Can people with Alzheimer’s attend adult day care?
Yes. Many adult day health care centers, including Health Guard, serve people with memory loss. In California, Medi-Cal may cover it through CBAS for people who qualify.
Looking for adult day health care in North Hollywood? Health Guard has served Los Angeles families since 1999. Call (818) 760-7727 or schedule a facility tour.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk with a doctor about your situation.
