Alzheimer’s Disease: Answers from Vianney, Occupational Therapist

Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of people worldwide and presents unique challenges for both patients and caregivers. To better understand the condition, we spoke with Vianney, an occupational therapist. In this article, you’ll discover the daily changes caused by Alzheimer’s, practical strategies for caregivers, available assistive devices, and ways to ensure a safe environment for those affected.

Alzheimer’s Disease: Questions and Answers

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disorder classified as a form of dementia. While it is often simply associated with memory loss, it affects a range of cognitive functions, including memory, reasoning, orientation, language, and judgment. Tasks that are normally automatic, like managing daily routines, become increasingly complex and risky for someone with cognitive impairments.

What changes occur in daily life?

Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the disease and may include:

• Memory problems and disorientation in time and space.

• Apraxia (difficulty performing learned tasks).

• Loss of autonomy in everyday activities.

Alzheimer’s usually develops gradually. Early signs include forgetfulness, losing track of time, and getting lost in familiar places. It primarily affects older adults, so age-related challenges often compound these difficulties.

How can caregivers support daily life?

The key is to promote autonomy and safety, helping maintain abilities for as long as possible. Strategies include:

• Establishing consistent daily routines, such as for bathing or meals.

• Keeping objects in designated locations.

• Using color-coded cues in the home (on doors, in the bathroom, etc.).

• Creating a simplified schedule with clear times and activities.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, additional assistive tools may be needed to help manage daily challenges.

Assistive Devices for Daily Living

A wide range of assistive devices exists, but choosing the right ones requires professional guidance. Simply purchasing equipment is not enough; it is essential to teach the individual how to use it effectively.

Examples of assistive devices:

• Memory support: agendas, pill organizers, voice memos, phones with speed dial.

• Orientation aids: talking clocks or alarms, dictaphones, GPS trackers, phosphorescent strips, and color-coded markers on doors.

• Safety equipment: protective helmets or caps, bed rails, anti-slip mats, and fall-prevention devices.

Ensuring a safe home environment

Caregivers should first assess daily risks and their causes to propose effective solutions:

• Restrict access to hazardous products or rooms with door locks or barriers.

• Limit the use of risky appliances, such as stovetops.

• Prevent wandering with GPS trackers and install alert systems like emergency alarms.

Addressing night-time wandering:

• Place food and drinks nearby if hunger or thirst is a factor.

• Ensure easy access to toilets with automatic lights or nightlights and phosphorescent strips.

• Consider specialized Alzheimer’s beds to reduce fall risk.

These strategies are not exhaustive. Consulting an occupational therapist can provide personalized guidance tailored to your loved one’s situation.

Conclusion

Supporting a person with Alzheimer’s requires understanding, patience, and practical solutions. By implementing consistent routines, safety measures, and assistive devices, caregivers can help maintain autonomy, reduce risks, and improve quality of life. Professional guidance ensures that both patients and caregivers navigate the daily challenges of Alzheimer’s with dignity, security, and confidence.