The second very important issue is the proper adaptation of the kitchen to the needs of the Alzheimer's patient. The furniture should be familiar to the patient, low with items always arranged in the same place. The gas cooker, any switches and other appliances available in the kitchen should be secured. The patient should not prepare meals alone; they should always do so under the supervision of a carer. The water shut-off valve is very important, as is the adoption of a bathroom for the person affected by Alzheimer's disease. The way to the toilet should always be lit and should not contain unnecessary objects, carpets or flowerbeds, etc. that the patient could trip over or fall over.

In the first and beginning of the second phase of the disease, the patient is able to walk to the toilet and use the toilet alone; in the final phase of the disease, the patient is usually guided or carried by carers. The patient often needs to be reminded of physiological needs, and as the disease progresses, sanitary pads and nappies are required.

Bathing the patient should be regular and the carer should assist the patient to get into the bath (it should be low), to soap up, to rinse and to get out and wipe. The bathtub and floor should have non-slip mats. Soap, lotions and towels should be within easy reach of the patient. The patient should not be left alone in the bath.

photo: pantherstock

Another very important issue is the type and quality of clothing worn. The carer has to assist the Alzheimer's patient in undressing and dressing. The person very often forgets to do this and has difficulty distinguishing between different pieces of clothing. It is advisable to use delicate, easy-to-change clothes and to replace all buttons with, for example, Velcro or snaps.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease is a very big responsibility and it is important to remember to meet all their basic needs, as well as their safety and peace of mind.