Seven Tips for Caregivers and Families of People With Alzheimer’s Disease
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can be one of the most loving—and one of the most challenging—things you do. As the disease progresses, your loved one may need more help with daily tasks, memory support, and emotional comfort. At the same time, it's important to care for yourself, too.
This article offers practical and emotional tips to help you support your loved one while also looking after your own well-being.
1. Create a Daily Routine
People with Alzheimer’s often feel more secure and less confused when life follows a predictable pattern. A daily routine helps them know what to expect and reduces stress for both of you.
Stick to the same wake-up, meal, and bedtime hours each day.
Do harder tasks (like bathing or doctor visits) at the same time of day, ideally when your loved one is calmest.
Include simple pleasures—like listening to music or going for a short walk.
Routines don’t have to be perfect. The key is consistency and gentle guidance.
2. Communicate with Kindness
As Alzheimer’s affects memory and thinking, your loved one may have trouble finding words, remembering names, or following conversations. This can be frustrating for both of you. But there are ways to make communication easier:
Use short, clear sentences.
Speak calmly and slowly.
Avoid arguing or correcting. It’s okay to let small mistakes go.
Use gentle touch and eye contact when speaking.
If your loved one becomes upset or confused, try changing the subject or environment instead of pushing the issue.
3. Make Their Home Safer
Safety is a top concern as Alzheimer’s progresses. Simple changes can help prevent accidents and keep your loved one secure.
Remove tripping hazards like rugs or loose cords.
Install night lights in hallways and bathrooms.
Use locks or alarms on doors if wandering is a concern.
Keep potentially harmful items like cleaning supplies and sharp objects out of reach.
A medical alert device may also be helpful in the earlier stages, especially for those who are still living semi-independently but may need quick access to help in an emergency.*
You don’t need to turn the house upside down overnight—start with small updates, and ask a doctor or occupational therapist for suggestions if needed.
4. Ask for Help and Take Breaks
You might feel like you need to “do it all,” but caregiving is not a one-person job. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Share caregiving with family or friends when possible.
Explore adult day programs for social interaction and supervision.
Consider hiring in-home help for a few hours a week.
Take regular breaks to rest, recharge, or simply have some time to yourself.
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Rested caregivers are more patient, more focused, and better able to provide care.
5. Care for Your Own Health
Caregiving can take a toll on your body and mind. It’s easy to overlook your own needs when you’re focused on someone else, but your health matters too.
Eat balanced meals and drink plenty of water.
Stay active, even if it’s just a short walk.
Get regular checkups and tell your doctor about any stress or fatigue.
Connect with others—talk to a friend, join a support group, or reach out to a counselor.
Remember, you’re not just a caregiver, you’re a whole person, and your needs are important.
6. Prepare for Changes Over Time
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means your loved one’s needs will change. They may begin to forget familiar faces, have trouble with everyday tasks, or become more confused or agitated.
This can be painful and exhausting, but planning ahead can help:
Talk with your doctor about what to expect.
Learn about long-term care options, like assisted living facilities.*
Have conversations early on about financial and legal planning.
Being prepared doesn’t mean you’re giving up—it means you’re giving yourself the tools to adapt with compassion and strength.
7. Celebrate the Good Moments
Not every day will be easy. But even small, quiet moments—like a shared smile, a song you both enjoy, or a peaceful walk—can be meaningful.
Try to focus on what your loved one can still do and enjoy, instead of only what’s changing or lost. Your kindness, presence, and love still matter deeply, even when words and memories fade.
Take It One Day at a Time
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a journey filled with highs and lows. It’s okay to feel tired, frustrated, or unsure. What matters most is showing up with love, even when things are hard.
Lean on others, ask for help, and remember that support is always available. You are doing something important, and you don’t have to do it alone.
Sources:
Alzheimer’s Association: Daily Care
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America: Tips for Managing Caregiver Stress
*Disclaimer: Healthcare Select may earn a commission if you purchase a product or service through links to our partners. This comes at no extra cost to you.