Your local Colchester Law Firm discusses the ways we can improve the life for those living with Alzheimer's.
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming and a hard time for everyone involved. However, there are small ways that you can improve the "quality of life" for those living with Alzheimer’s disease, to make the world feel safer and less confusing.
Although you could argue that "quality of life" can be defined differently by everyone, there are common factors that are likely true for most people.
Having Strong Relationships
It's important to have someone that's there for you, who you can turn to and talk about issues you may have.
Comfortable Environment
Make sure your environment feels like home, safe and secure. It's important to feel comfortable and relaxed, even if your room is small include items that make it feel homely. Enjoyable smells, sounds and feelings can make life feel better. Scented flowers, freshly baked bread, herbs and spices, soothing sounds, a walk in the sand – could all be found pleasurable.
Pet Therapy
Interacting with animals has been proven to help induce positive emotions in people living with a variety of health conditions. Studies show that spending even a few minutes a day petting an animal can result in a lower heart rate, lower blood pressure and decreased rates of depression.
Keep to a Routine
Keep to familiar habits and routines – washing and dressing, meals, bedtime. On the other hand, if they want to do or eat something different, we can all go with the flow.
Be Patient
It’s good to be respectful whatever of their behaviour, and encourage others to be too.
After diagnosis, it may be wise to decide to start putting plans in place for the future. Although this can be difficult, it can be reassuring to know that you have made your wishes and preferences clear and have people who will be able to make decisions in your best interests. If you would like any advice from our team about Lasting Powers of Attorney, you can contact us here.