Counseling relative of a patient with Alzheimer's dementia.
POINTS:
Alzheimer's disease is usually progressive with mental function getting steadily worse. Some problems such as aggression may improve over time. The rate of change and the length of life vary greatly.
Lock up any rooms in the house that are not in use, the patient will not notice this restriction. This may make the life of the cares easy.
To lock up any drawers which contain important papers or easily spoiled items. This will prevent the patient storing inappropriate things in them.
Remove locks for the lavatory so that the patient cannot get locked in.
Normal sexual relationship will probably stop.
The relative should psychologically prepare for the day when the patient no longer recognizes him. This can be a great blow.
Day care for the patient is available. It will give much needed respite from the thankless task of looking after the patient (to the carer).
Advice the relative to apply for an attendance allowance.
Alzheimer's disease society exists (give phone number).