Promoting Independence After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Recognize Individual Strengths 

It’s important to recognize the unique abilities that your loved one has and base your caregiving habits around their personal strengths. It’s hard to gauge what they are capable of and where they need support. For example, if they’re no longer able to cook, but they want to be involved in meal prep, have them set the table and assist with simpler tasks, like making fruit bowls or chips and dip. If they are capable of dressing themselves but struggle with shoelaces, consider using slip-on shoes. Wherever possible, meet them where they are capable.

Adapt your Home

For people with dementia, familiar environments help them connect with the past and maintain a sense of who they are. To make your home safer or “dementia-friendly” strike a balance between safety and independence. Make a checklist of safety issues and take time to walk through each section of your house considering the risk factors that occur with dementia: decreased balance and reaction time; visual-perceptual problems and other physical limitations. 

– Are the rugs secure? 

– Do the stairways need specific safety equipment installed such as banisters and handrails?

– Should I lower the water temperature?

– Should I consider buying safety equipment like an electric kettle with an automated shut-off feature?

– Remove locks from bedrooms and bathrooms and use safety locks to secure other areas.

– Make sure living areas are well lit.

– Consider registering with a safety alert or Medic Alert safety program.