When you are taking care of a senior parent with Alzheimer’s sometimes it’s difficult to understand what they’re thinking or feeling. When they have lost the ability to tell you how they’re feeling you have to be able to read their non-verbal cues.
That can make it difficult to comfort them when they’re sad, anxious, or scared because you may not know what is causing them to feel like that. They might not even know why they are feeling that way. But there are some things that you can do to comfort your mom or dad, even if you don’t know the reason.
If you don’t already have Alzheimer’s care for your mom or dad now is the time to consider getting it. Alzheimer’s care is specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer’s. The care providers who work in Alzheimer’s care can help you understand more about how Alzheimer’s affects your mom or dad. They can also teach you the most effective and compassionate ways to help your mom or dad.
When your mom or dad is anxious, scared, or sad you can try these different methods of comforting them:
1. Offer a Calming Touch
Sometimes, your touch can do more than words. Gently hold your mom or dad’s hand, pat their back, or touch their arm. This can help them feel safe. A soft touch reminds them that they’re not alone. It’s a simple way to show that you care. It can help calm your mom or dad’s nerves and make them feel less anxious.
2. Speak Slowly and Soothingly
When someone with Alzheimer’s is upset, loud or quick speech can make it worse. Speak slowly and clearly. Use a calm and soft voice. Often when your mom or dad doesn’t understand the words you’re saying the tone of voice that you use will give them a clue about how they are supposed to act. A calm tone lets them know they should be calm.
Reassure your mom or dad that they are okay. Sometimes, just hearing your voice in a gentle tone can help them relax. Avoid raising your voice, as it may startle them. Instead, be patient and give them time to process.
3. Redirect Their Attention
If your senior parent seems scared or upset, try distracting them with something they enjoy. Ask them to look at a photo album, listen to calming music, or even do a simple puzzle together.
A favorite activity or topic can shift their focus away from their fears. This can help lower anxiety and bring comfort. Keeping their mind engaged on something positive can give them a sense of calm.
4. Create a Calm Environment
The environment around your mom or dad plays a big role in how they feel. If they are anxious or upset, make sure the space is calm and quiet.
Dim the lights, turn off the TV, and reduce noise. Soft music or nature sounds can be soothing. A clean, organized space with familiar items will help them feel more secure. Make sure they’re sitting or lying in a comfortable position. A peaceful environment can help your mom or dad feel less overwhelmed.
5. Provide Reassurance and Familiarity
Alzheimer’s can cause confusion, so your senior parent might not always understand where they are or what’s happening. Reassure them that everything is okay. Remind them that you are there and will stay with them. You can also offer comfort by bringing up familiar things, like a favorite pet or a cherished memory. Even if they don’t remember everything, hearing words of comfort can ease their worries.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Care in north Texas, including Frisco, TX, please contact the caring staff at Arcy at Home today at 214-424-6100. Shifts offered from 6 to 24 hours a day with no contracts or start up fees.
My name is Jimmie Stapleton. I am the founder and CEO of Arcy Healthcare. Arcy Healthcare includes Arcy Hospice, Arcy Supportive Care, MaximaCare Home Health and Arcy at Home.
Arcy Hospice was opened in 2007 to provide care and support for individuals and families facing a life limiting illness. It was established after my wife Ellen, who had been diagnosed with breast cancer, had completed her chemo and radiation therapies. At that time, things were looking positive, and we wanted to do something for our community that had been so supportive of our family during her treatments. Unfortunately, the cancer returned a few years later, and she subsequently passed away under our care in 2010.
In the years that followed, I began to see the need to provide the same level of excellent care to patients across the continuum of care. Therefore, we have added a home health division (MaximaCare Home Health), a palliative care division (Arcy Supportive Care), and a home care division, (Arcy at Home). With the addition of these divisions, we can meet most of the post-acute care needs for you and your family in your home.
I started Arcy Hospice with my wife as my motivation to provide exceptional care and support in the patient’s home, where they are surrounded by family and where they feel most comfortable. I’m proud to say that our staff provides some of the best in home care in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area.
Please let us know if we can enrich the quality of life for you or a loved one.
Sincerely,
Jimmie Stapleton – Founder and CEO
Arcy Healthcare
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