fbpx

The importance of consistency for people with Alzheimer’s

Every 69 seconds, another American develops Alzheimer’s disease. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and the fifth leading cause of death for those aged 65 and older. In Massachusetts, 120,000 individuals age 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease, and the number of residents affected by the disease is expected to increase 17 percent by 2025 if no cure is found.

Alzheimer’s is one of the most challenging diseases for caregivers to deal with because of its ever-changing, sometimes unpredictable nature from person to person.  Research and studies are ongoing about the best ways to deal with people suffering from dementia, and one thing that seems to give these people comfort is consistency of environment and care givers. 

When the physical environment is recognizable and unchanging, be it dining, activity areas or bathrooms, this encourages and supports a feeling of independence for dementia sufferers. It is also helpful to maintain consistent cues for people—such things as photos or paintings on the wall that stay the same, furniture that remains unmoved—to help them find their way around a residence and avoid confusion. In private rooms, keeping personal furnishings such as photos and knickknacks in the same place also provides comfort.

While Alzheimer’s sufferers living at home often have care provided by a single family member or friend, those living in communities can encounter a number of staff who rotate through shifts. However, consistent staff assignments help to promote the quality of the relationships between staff and residents. Staffing patterns should ensure that residents with dementia have sufficient assistance to complete their health and personal care routines and to participate in the daily life of the residence. And care givers in both home and residence situations should strive to maintain a consistent schedule of when a person gets up, how they wish to be bathed, when they like their meals, when they enjoy activities and when it’s time to go to bed.

We all want those with Alzheimer’s to enjoy the best quality of life, and consistency is more key to making this happen.

Learn More About Bridges®

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Loading...