Strategies For Persons with Developmental Disabilities Having symptoms of Alzheimer's

Memory Just a line to say I’m living, that I’m not among the dead; though I’m getting more forgetful and mixed up in my head. For sometimes I can’t remember when I stand at the foot of the stairs if I must go up for something or I’ve just come down from there. And before the refrigerator, so often my poor mind is filled with doubt, have I just put food away or have I come to take some out? I’ve got used to my arthritis, to my dentures I’m resigned, I can manage by bifocals, but, Oh God, I miss my mind!

Alzheimer's Losses Short Term Memory New learning ability Reasoning and abstracting Judgment, planning and foresight Language skills Inhibition/impulse control Sense of intimacy

Behavioral Changes Pacing Rummaging Hand wringing Agitation Insistence Public Masturbation Fearfulness Sexual comments Hallucinations/Delusions Withdrawal Repeating questions

Physical Factors Urinary tract infections Bowel impaction Dehydration Seizures Pain/discomfort Mood swings

Strategies Provide quiet time Alleviate boredom Avoid many changes Keep choices simple keep consistent schedule Reduce stimuli Provide decaf beverages Limit length of conversation

Communication Techniques Identify yourself Use calm, clear voice Eliminate background noise Use short, simple sentences Use one-step commands Ask yes/no questions Use word cues Make direct eye contact

Written Communication Label the environment Keep a schedule of the day Use notes as reminders Non-Verbal Communications Use an open, gentle approach Hold out items Wave goodbye Use expression of concern Nod your head

Increasing Quality of Life

Use the R’s Remain calm Respond to feelings Reassure the person Remove yourself Return later

And Also: Be aware of client needs, information and resources available Identify aspects of disease and screen their problems Provide treatment through program development Advocate and refer for further treatment

Programming Reality Orientation: Brings information regarding time, place, person, and things Sensory Stimulation: Activities are presented to accentuate a particular sense Re-socialization: Uses group techniques to stress interpersonal relationships

Attitude!