Health
Issues
Keeping
the person with Alzheimer's disease in good health is important.
Providing her with nutritious meals, enough to drink
and opportunities to exercise will help to do this. Regular
check-ups with the doctor and dentist should be continued.
Like
all of us, the person with Alzheimer's disease can also
develop problems like colds or toothaches. She can also
suffer from serious diseases such as cancer or diabetes.
As
Alzheimer's disease progresses, the person may not understand
what is wrong or even be able to tell you if she has
any pain. You need to be aware of any sudden changes
in behaviour that might be a sign of physical problems.
Changes in eating patterns, sudden loss or gain of weight,
or increased restlessness and agitation should be reported
to your doctor.
You
should talk to your doctor or pharmacist before giving
the person any medication. Any medicine can produce a
side effect. Common side effects include: rashes, upset
stomach, and drowsiness.
The
person may experience some of these side effects, but
the medicine may also affect her behaviour by increasing
confusion. It is important that you, as the caregiver,
are aware of all possible side effects. If you do give
medication to someone with Alzheimer's disease, report
any unexpected changes to your doctor.
Alcohol
can affect the behaviour of someone with Alzheimer's disease
and can make her more confused. You may need to limit
use or stop it all together depending on the person's
reaction.
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