The following ideas are easy to implement and will help you manage the daily life of a person with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.
Timely suggestions for someone with Alzheimer's
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Calendar
Hang a wall calendar with large squares in a centralized location. Encourage the person to keep track of the date by crossing off each day on the calendar -- ideally as part of a routine, such as first thing in the morning or before going to bed. Attach a pen or marker to the calendar with a string so it doesn't get lost. Mark key events on the calendar: trash pickup day, family birthdays or events, medical appointments, days any bills are due, family visits.
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Clock
Keep a large-faced, easy-to-read clock in plain view in every room the person frequents. Ideal is a digital clock that displays the day and date along with the time. You may also want to use written reminders ("I'll be right back at 2 p.m.") or an inverted hourglass to help track time when this ability becomes more difficult.
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Automatic bill payments
Reduce the number of bills the person you're caring for needs to keep track of by helping him or her sign up for automatic bill paying, which draws the funds from a bank account at the right time each month.
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Reminder calls
If you're picking someone with early dementia up for an appointment, call right before you leave the house as a reminder that you're on your way. Don't call first thing in the morning for an afternoon appointment. When phone reminders are given too far in advance, it may cause confusion, and he or she may start getting ready to leave right away, then wonder where you are.
