With many disorders it is very difficult to come to terms with the symptoms and the erratic behavior of the patients that may make progression of the disease worse. There is no worse progression than Alzheimer’s disease, in which the patient will slowly appear more aloof and more removed from this environment, as he will forget facts and events that characterize his most basic personality.
Once we have established that the patient has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, the most important next step is to accept and move forward with proper care and treatment. As a loved one, you should be informed as to the process of the Alzheimer patient’s progression, and also accept the fact that others are going through what you are going through. For one, the patient must undergo a dietary change, moving away from high fat content, with cholesterol to a more healthy cholesterol diet, rich in low-fat proteins and vitamins. Omega fatty acid foods, such as fish may also help to gain a more healthy state. Exercising along with the Alzheimer’s patient will also be beneficial as this will lead to a more stimulating and relaxing activity for both parties, while engaging and bonding. Kids are also a great option, as they will increase positive responses in patients and may bring back situational memories that may have been latent during the disease. Many times, it is the little things that make the most differences in the progressions of one’s disease.
The most important thing to stress for those coping with loved ones with Alzheimer’s or Alzheimer’s themselves is to not lose sight of the end goal, which is to accept and endure the hardships. Alzheimer’s disease many times strikes those who do not stay active mentally and are not surrounding by a strong social circle. If you are in fact a loved one, you should join other loved ones in a close knit social circle where you can discuss and let emotions out. One will realize that keeping the patient engaged and making the most of the current situation is the best way to approaching and accepting the disease and all its ramifications. The patient, feeling involved with his or her social support circle has been proven to reduce the progression of Alzheimer’s and also allowed a positive relationship to be formed with loved ones during this time of trial.
Therefore, do not lose sight of what is important, and do not let Alzheimer’s run your life. The key here is to unlock the social support and use this as a buffer to protect oneself from feeling helpless and emotionally distraught. The loved one must understand that there is nothing they could have done to prevent this disease, and the best step forward is to actually put on a happy face and be supportive while enjoying the time he has left. Contacting support groups is a great way to share your experiences and lighten the load.