How to make life easier for the both of you..

These things can help in making life easier as this disease progresses..

*While they can still sign their name,make sure someone responsible is designated to have power of attorney.You can buy these forms at office supply places or the internet.Have it notarized.
*Make pre-arrangements with funeral home.Its better to make the arrangements when your mind is clear,not when it actually happens.
*Join a support group or mentor
*Put a plastic over the mattress,then put the fitted sheet on
*Put a towel under them when they sit on the sofa
*Make sure you take your loved one to the bathroom before bed time
*Buy "Depends"
*Have certain times for everyday things such as, bath time,bed time,breakfast,snack,lunch,dinner,etc. Have a set routine.It makes it easier to say, its lunch time now. They will get use to the schedule and having a schedule will help in staying on task.
*If you keep them home,hire a HHA or CNA to help you with somethings or enroll them in an adult day care
*If you choose a nursing home,then make sure you do visits weekly,know the staff,attend care plan meetings and label your loved ones things. buy them their own items such as,tearless shampoo,lotion,etc. Let the nursing home know that you want to be called if anything minor and major ahppens. Give them all your telephone numbers.
*Skin gets very dry with certain meds,so be sure to look at their skin and keep it moisturized.if you need to make an appt with the dermatologist, do so.Check behind the ears for chafting as well.
*Have podiatrist take care of their feet.Swelling and other foot problems may occur.
*Massage legs gently
*Assist in hygiene or make sure you know the bathing times that the nursing home does. Always check your loved ones.Bring them their favorite snack when you visit:)
*Buy tank tops or comfortable bras. Comfortability is the key.
*Buy pants that has elastic waist
*Buy nurse shoes.There very comfortable
*If falling becomes a problem, add bed rails to the bed
*Add vitamins,minerals and fiber with their regular meds
*If their losing weight,ask the dr if they recommend ensure or an extra drinking supplement or supplement pudding
*Buy simple games such as connect four,simple puzzles,coloring books,etc.Assist them and prompt them where to put the pieces and let them win connect four, make it fun!Sometime its all about them putting the pieces in the connect four and starting over.It helps with being figity. Also play dough helps with hand grip strengthening.
*Read to your loved one.
*Play music they like
***More tips coming soon!