How to Convince Alzheimer's Patients to Cooperate

Alzheimer's disease is a neurological disorder that causes its victims to experience memory loss, confusion, disorientation and poor judgment. One of the most common issues in caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's is resistance to care. Sometimes a person with Alzheimer's will refuse to cooperate with his or her caregivers, and will even strike out or show other aggressive behavior. A skilled caregiver is usually--though not always--able to calm the agitated person and encourage cooperation.

Things You'll Need

• Photographs of family
• DVDs of favorite television shows or movies
• CDs of favorite music

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Instructions

Making a Request

• 1

  Get the person's attention. Stand or crouch in front of the person at eye level and make eye contact. If the person is lost in thought, direct his attention to you by gently touching his arm or his leg.

• 2

  Tell the person what you want them to do. Use short sentences and simple phrases, but avoid baby talk, which many people with Alzheimer's find offensive. For instance, you might say, "It's time for your shower," or "That shirt is dirty. Let's get you a different shirt."

• 3

  Encourage the person to participate in her own care as much as possible. Offer short, clear instructions and give the person a few seconds to process what you are saying. Avoid compound sentences or requests. For instance, the person with Alzheimer's may become frustrated and resistive if you say, "Put your shoes on, find your purse, get your coat, and wait for me in the car." Instead, give each of these instructions separately and wait until your loved one completes the requested action before giving the next instruction.

What to Do if the Person Becomes Resistive

• 4

  Offer redirection. Change the subject or give the person something else to focus on by showing him old photographs, playing his favorite music or putting on DVDs of his favorite television shows.

• 5

  What until the person is calm again, and then reapproach her with a calm and positive attitude as if the previous conflict never occurred. For instance, don't say, "Are you finally ready to eat your dinner now?" Instead say, "Hi, Mom. It's time for dinner."

• 6

  Pick your battles. If the person continues to resist care, ask yourself how important the issue really is. If it's not that important--and most issues aren't--let it go for another day.