PROVIDING COMFORT DURING LATE-STAGE ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

PROVIDING COMFORT DURING LATE-STAGE ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE When late-stage Alzheimer's reduces the ability to communicate through words, it might seem useless to try to make a connection with your loved one. However, those with late-stage Alzheimer's can still experience the world through senses such as touch, smell, sound and sight. It's crucial to continue providing comfort to those with late-stage Alzheimer's disease by nurturing your personal connection with them. Try the following methods to provide comfort to your relative: • Tap into his or her senses. Think about your loved one's history. Was she a gardener? Perhaps she'd enjoy the smell of fresh cut flowers or herbs. Does he love animals? He might find pleasure in stroking a dog or cat (if you don't have a pet, find a neighbour with a pet you can trust). If she enjoys the outdoors, she might enjoy bird watching. If he likes music, sounds that represent a happy time in his life or a cultural/spiritual tradition could be very comforting to him. The key is to find a way to tap into your loved one's senses by remembering his or her unique qualities. • Use touch. Simply holding a person's hand or providing a gentle massage can communicate reassurance and caring to a person with late-stage Alzheimer's. • Speak in a soothing tone. Even if your relative can no longer understand what you're saying, speaking in a gentle, soothing tone of voice can provide comfort and a feeling of safety.. Similarly, the rhythm of reading to her can be relaxing, even if she doesn't understand what you're reading. (source: http://alzheimers.about..com/od/caregiving/qt/comfort.htm)