Alzheimer’s can make daily tasks such as bathing, eating and getting dressed a challenge. Your loved one may not remember how to do some of these things, and you may need to help. The experience can be frustrating and stressful for both of you.

However, there are a few things you can do to make daily tasks easier.

Developing a routine

“Coming up with a daily routine provides structure, which is really important,” says Beth Kallmyer, MSW, director of Client and Information Services for the Alzheimer’s Association. “It reduces stress on you, and it helps the person with Alzheimer’s to function better.”

“When you have memory problems, changes are hard,” she explains. “If things change from day to day and there’s not much structure, people with Alzheimer’s are more likely to become disoriented and agitated.”

“But if the person is feeling more relaxed, your job will be easier,” Kallmyer adds. “Things will be less frustrating for both of you.”

Following a daily routine may even help your loved one preserve his or her ability to do certain tasks such as brushing teeth and getting dressed for as long as possible, she says.

To develop your routine, look at a typical day and try to structure it logically, advises the National Institute on Aging (NIA).

For example:

• Morning might start with a bath or shower, getting dressed, breakfast and then looking at old photos or talking about what’s in the newspaper.
• After lunch may be a good time for a walk or other exercise, followed by reading the mail and recreational activities such as a listening to music or doing crossword puzzles.
• After dinner may be a good time to wind down with a game, cards or a movie before bed. Try to keep the same bedtime every night, advises the NIA.

You’ll want to tailor the schedule according to your loved one’s abilities. And you’ll need to be flexible. You won’t be able to stick to the routine every day, but having it in place will help.

Daily tasks

Daily tasks will go better if you’re able to communicate well with your loved one. Use simple step-by-step directions when coaching your loved one through an activity. But don’t talk as if you’re speaking to a baby, advises the NIA. Be respectful and encouraging.

You can also use gestures or model how to do actions such as brushing teeth, washing in the shower or picking up food with a fork. Remember to be patient, and don’t rush.

The NIA and the Alzheimer’s Association offer these additional tips for making daily tasks easier:

Bathing

• Put soap, shampoo, towels and clean clothes out ahead of time so they’ll be ready.
• Make sure the water temperature is comfortable and not too hot.
• Give your loved one a large towel or robe so he or she can maintain some privacy.
• To prevent falls, install grab bars, nonskid surfaces and a shower bench. Mop up puddles right away.

Grooming

• Coach your loved one on brushing teeth and hair.
• Encourage men to shave and women to wear makeup—if they’ve always used it. You can help apply powder and lipstick. But, for safety, avoid applying eye makeup. Remember, maintaining a nice appearance is important to your loved one’s self-esteem.

Getting dressed

• Encourage your loved one to get dressed independently.
• Lay out clothes in the order they are to be put on.
• Offer only two choices of outfits so your loved one won’t get overwhelmed.
• If zippers and buttons are a problem, choose clothes that have elastic bands or Velcro fasteners.
• Buy multiple sets of the same outfit if your loved one likes to wear the same thing over and over.

Eating

• Keep meal times relaxed and free of distractions such as the TV and radio.
• Make meals a social occasion. Eat and talk together.
• Limit food choices to only one or two items at a time so your loved one won’t get overwhelmed.
• Offer finger foods or shakes if using utensils is difficult.
• Beware of choking risks. People in later stages of Alzheimer’s may have problems chewing and swallowing. Avoid serving items such as nuts, raw carrots and popcorn. Know how to perform the Heimlich maneuver.
• Make sure your loved one is getting enough food. Talk to your doctor if nutrition is a concern.

Seek support

Joining a caregiver support group is a great way to relieve stress and learn more about caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, Kallmyer says. You can also call the Alzheimer's Association’s 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit www.alz.org.

And don’t forget to take care of yourself. Get help from a friend, or engage respite care or adult day care so you can take a break.

reviewed 11/2/2009