Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s often means learning and adjusting as their needs change.
In Chapter 5 of Jamie Glavich’s Simply Caring: Putting the Alzheimer’s Puzzle Together, Jamie explores some of the practical matters caregivers may encounter along the way. From changes in behavior and eating habits to medications, falls, home safety, and driving, caregiving can bring questions that don’t always have simple answers.
Look Beyond the Behavior
When a behavior changes, consider what may be causing it. Your loved one may be uncomfortable, confused, frightened, tired, or reacting to something in their environment.
What worked yesterday may not always work tomorrow. As Alzheimer’s progresses, caregivers often have to adjust routines and try new approaches.
Pay Attention to Changing Needs
Everyday needs can change, too. Medications may need to be reviewed with healthcare professionals, while appetite, food preferences, portions, and mealtime routines may change over time.
Safety should also be considered regularly. Simple changes such as improving lighting, removing clutter, addressing tripping hazards, or adding appropriate bathroom supports can help make the home easier to navigate.
A fall may also be telling you more than “they tripped.” Changes in balance, mobility, vision, medications, or other health concerns may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
Some Decisions Are Difficult
Driving, independence, and safety can lead to some of the hardest conversations families face. Even familiar places may eventually become difficult for someone with Alzheimer’s to navigate.
There may not always be a perfect answer.
Good caregiving isn’t only about knowing the disease. It’s about continuing to observe, ask questions, adapt, and make decisions with your loved one’s safety, dignity, and quality of life in mind.
Caregiving means learning as needs change.
Say Yes to the Next Step
You don’t have to navigate changing care needs alone.
Call Jamie today to learn how Almost Home can support your family. 904-731-4002.
