DEMENTIA

People with dementia, begin to forget things and have problems doing everyday tasks. Here is what you can do to help yourself.

• Get regular checkups and take your medication as prescribed.
• Eat healthy foods and try to exercise every day.
• Rest when you are tired.
• Drink less alcohol.
• Join a support group. The Alzheimer’s Association can help.
• Do the activities you like as long as you are able to.
• Have a plan for emergencies or call 911.

Ask your doctor:

• What medicines may help slow down the dementia.
• About day programs that keep you active.

Call your doctor:

If there are big changes in how you are acting or what you are thinking.

Taking care of people with dementia is hard. Here is what you can do:

• Always address the person by name.
• Create a daily routine by waking up, bathing, dressing, eating and going to bed at the same time each day.
• Use Velcro closures on clothing. They are easier than buttons and zippers.
• Create a safe and supportive home. Limit access to dangerous places. Have an even level of light in hallways and rooms. Use night-lights.
• Try to keep the person from falling or getting hurt. Install grab bars and non-skid strips in the bathroom.
• Have a list of emergency phone numbers.

Ask the doctor:

• What stage the patient is in and what to expect.
• If all tests were done to be sure dementia is not caused by something that can be fixed or reversed.
• About the medical care.
• What medicines to give and how to give medicines.
• About planning for the future, end of life decisions and hospice care.

Call the doctor: if there are big changes in how the person is acting or thinking.

Reference: Heath TiPS from the ACP Foundation. American College of Physicians. Internal Medicine. http://www.acponline.org/patients_families/products/health_tips/