My WebMD Sign In

Please enter email address

Enter your password

Keep me signed in on this computer

Show more Information

If you select "Keep me signed in on this computer", every time you visit WebMD.com you won't have to type your email address and password. This means that a cookie will stay on your computer even when you exit or close your browser which may reduce your levels of privacy and security. You should never select this option if you're using a publicly accessible computer, or if you're sharing a computer with others. Even if you select this option there are some features of our site that still require you to log in for privacy reasons.

Forget your password? Having trouble signing in?

Why should I
sign up for WebMD?

With a WebMD Account you can:

Track your way to weight loss success
Manage your family's vaccinations
Join the conversation

See more benefits Sign Up

Why WebMD?

My WebMD

Show Menu

Facebook Twitter Pinterest

WebMD Home

Brain & Nervous System Health Center

Alzheimer's Disease Health Center

Alzheimer's Disease Guide

Email a Friend

Print Article

Alzheimer's Disease Health Center

Tools & Resources

Font Size

Alzheimer's Disease: Daily Care of the Alzheimer's Patient

The approach to take for people with Alzheimer's disease will differ depending on their symptoms and the progression of the disease. These factors help to determine how much and what types of assistance are needed for the person and his or her family.

It is important to remember that lost skills will not be regained. However, proper management of the disease and its symptoms can make living with Alzheimer's disease -- or a person with Alzheimer's disease -- a little easier.

Recommended Related to Alzheimer's

Sundowning

Sundowning, or sundown syndrome, affects some people who have Alzheimer's disease and dementia. People with dementia who "sundown" experience periods of increased confusion and agitation as the sun goes down -- and sometimes through the night. Sundowning may prevent people with dementia from sleeping well. It may also make them more likely to wander. Sundowning is a common cause of caregiver burnout.

Read the Sundowning article > >

Keep the following in mind:

Physical exercise, proper nutrition, good general health, and socialization are important for people with Alzheimer's disease.
Plan daily activities to help provide structure, meaning, and a sense of accomplishment for the person with Alzheimer's. It is always best to establish a routine with which the person can become familiar.
Choose the best times to do activities according to the part of the day when the person is usually at his/her best.
As functions are lost, adapt activities and routines to allow the person with Alzheimer's to participate as much as possible.
Keep activities familiar and satisfying, and keep instructions simple.
Allow the person with Alzheimer's to complete as many things as possible by him/herself, even if you have to initiate the activity.
Provide "cues" for desired behavior. For example, if you label a drawer according to what it should contain, the person is more likely to put things in the correct place.
Keep the individual with Alzheimer's out of harm's way by removing things that could endanger them. For example, hide the car keys and matches. Also try to keep the environment safe. Remember: What appears safe to you may not be safe for a person with Alzheimer's.
As a caregiver, it is important to understand and act according to your own physical and emotional limitations. Be sure to take care of yourself, and allow yourself periods of rest and relaxation.