Researchers are conducting more studies about Alzheimer’s disease and how it can be treated. One of the best ways to deal with the problem, for both the patient and caregiver, is to maintain as normal a life as possible.
Take some simple steps early in your diagnosis to maintain a normal life.
For instance, many Alzheimer’s patients early on wonder how they can deal with the inevitable memory problems that come up. One of the best ways to deal with memory loss is to keep a small notebook with you to note important information. Some of the critical things that you should have in your notebook are:
- Emergency phone numbers
- Names
- Addresses
- Directions to places you often go
Any time you need to jog your memory, you can check your notebook.
Another good way to maintain a normal life with the disease is to start every day with a specific plan of action. For example, you may want to find things to do that you can safely do yourself, or perform tasks during a part of the day when work is normally done. It also is important to pace yourself.
Medical experts also recommend that you ask a trusted friend or family member to go with you on an excursion. You always should have directions with you, even if you know the way. You should never be shy about asking for help from someone who lives nearby.
Maintaining a Normal Home Life
Of course, one of the best ways to keep a normal life after your diagnosis is to take care of yourself in your own home. Of course, the effects of Alzheimer’s can make this more difficult as time passes. But you can take certain precautions early on so that you can take care of yourself as much as possible:
- Have emergency phone numbers and addresses near the phone
- Ask a neighbor to keep a set of your house keys
- Organize your home neatly so that you can find things
- Have a friend check on you every day to make sure all is well
- Buy some simple Alzheimer’s products that can help you maintain your independence – GripWare High Sided Dishes, Non-Slip Scoopy Scoop Plates, Extra Large Clear Plate Guard.
Regarding financial tasks, it is important for you to be sure that key tasks are not missed. For example, you may want to have your bills paid automatically. You also may want to have someone else handle your checking account for you. Your retirement pension and Social Security benefits can be electronically deposited into your account as well.
By taking some of these precautions early on, you will find that it easier for you to maintain a regular life after Alzheimer diagnosis.
