Alzheimer’s disease has been a hot topic in the headlines, and for good reason. The progressive, degenerative neurological disease for which there is presently no cure affects an estimated 35.6 million people worldwide. According to the 2010 World Alzheimer Report, the number of people with Alzheimer’s is projected to double every 20 years, to 65.7 million in 2030 and 115.4 million in 2050. Worldwide, the estimated annual economic cost of dementia is $604 billion. Every 70 seconds, someone in the US develops Alzheimer’s, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. As the more than 77 million American baby boomers begin reaching the age of greater risk, this disease and its effects simply cannot be ignored.

Alzheimer’s disease can take a physical, emotional and mental toll on patients, families and caregivers. As communication skills fade for a person with Alzheimer’s, caregivers often find it frustrating to support the person’s sense of self while trying to minimize skills that may be compromised due to the disease.

With Alzheimer’s, a daily routine is essential. Activities that are done regularly, even at the same time every day if possible, may help establish routine and increase the person's sense of stability. Following structured activity ideas that involve and interest the person with Alzheimer’s will help minimize the disturbing behaviors associated with the disease such as agitation, anger, frustration, depression, wandering or rummaging.

Here are a few structured activity ideas for helping Alzheimer’s patients experience a better quality of life:

Motor: Take a walk, do chair exercises, stretch, or even do a dance using just the hands – the important thing is to encourage some sort of movement.

Sensory: Listening to music on tapes or CDs (not the radio, as commercials can be confusing) while looking at old photographs, watching TV or movies, looking at picture books, sniffing perfume, soap and spices, or working on basic art projects are beneficial. Be careful to avoid sensory overload by eliminating competing noises.

Interactive: Invite friends or relatives over for tea or coffee, reminisce, asking basic questions while looking at old photos, play simple card or board games, or try pet therapy (be sure to match the animal’s activity and energy level with that of the individual).

Cognitive: Practice computerized memory exercises, do simple crossword puzzles or word finds, play games such as “Simon Says” or “I Spy”.

If you fear someone you love may be showing signs of dementia or early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, Freedom Home Care recommends a memory screening. Though a memory screening is not used to diagnose any particular illness and does not replace consultation with a qualified physician or other healthcare professional, it is a good first step towards diagnosis and treatment. For more information about memory screenings in the local community, dementia resources or in-home care needs, call Freedom Home Care in Dothan, Alabama at 334-803-8078 or Opelika, Alabama at 334-745-7308. Freedom Home Care also has offices in Columbus, Georgia and Montgomery, Alabama.