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One
of the more uncomfortable aspects of aging is the possibility of facing an ailment like Alzheimer's. Dealing with Alzheimer's and
vision loss together may be something you don't even want to
contemplate, but it does happen. If you've been diagnosed with early
stage Alzheimer's, please know that there are steps that you and your
loved ones can take to minimize the problems that inevitably follow
the onset of cognitive illness.
Stick
with the tried and true.
If you've never used a microwave oven or a cell phone, now is not
the time to start. It's best to reinforce your skills with familiar
devices and appliances.
Keep
expectations in check.
Alzheimer's affects memory and your ability to organize.
Activities you once performed with confidence are going to get
progressively more difficult, so don't get discouraged by mistakes.
Take things one simple, deliberate step at a time.
Make
appropriate adaptations to your home.
Upgrades to make your living space safer and easier to navigate
with regard to vision loss are even more critical when cognitive
ability is a factor. Specifically:
-
Avoid monochromatic color schemes. Create contrast
between walls and flooring, walls and door
and window trim, cabinets and hardware, etc.
- Reduce glare.
Light-colored, rather than white, walls can brighten rooms without
adding too much distracting glare.
- Designate room landmarks. A large sofa or distinctive cabinet can act as a
centerpiece and provide you with your bearings.
- Avoid busy patterns for walls, floors, and furniture.
If
Your Loved One Has Advanced Alzheimer's …
- Watch
for signs of agitation or frustration with an activity. Gently
distract him or her to some other task, preferably something the
person usually enjoys.
- Establish
a daily routine. Try to schedule key activities (meals, recreation)
for the same times each day.
- Be
attentive to eating habits. Some people with Alzheimer's have to be
encouraged to eat. You might try offering several small meals a
day, rather than three large ones. Also, be sure that mealtime is
quiet and free of distractions. If the person struggles with
utensils, serve finger foods, and substitute bowls for plates.
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For More
Information:
- Medline Plus, a
service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National
Institutes of Health. Alzheimer's Disease.
A roundup of resources on all aspects of Alzheimer's, including
information in Spanish.
- National Institute
on Aging. Alzheimer's Disease Fact Sheet.
Overview of, and links to resources on, Alzheimer's Disease; also
available in Spanish.
- American Health Assistance Foundation (AHAF). Alzheimer's Disease Research.
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Understanding my diagnosis helped me take control of my vision loss.
