Alzheimer’s Disease: Recommendations for Newly Diagnosed Patients

Newly diagnosed Alzheimer’s patients should learn strategies for coping with memory problems and planning their daily activities.
In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, individuals may start noticing certain changes. Remembering things, making decisions, and finding one’s way around can become more challenging. Irritability may also occur frequently. Implementing and following some recommendations can make daily life easier.

How to cope with memory problems?

• Always carry a notebook with you to jot down important information, phone numbers, names, ideas that come to mind, appointments, addresses, and directions to your home.
• Write notes and stick them everywhere around the house when you need to remember something.
• Attach words or pictures that explain the contents to the tops of cupboards and drawers.
• Write down important phone numbers in large letters and place them next to the telephone at home.
• Ask a friend or family member to call you and remind you of important things to remember, such as meal times, medication schedules, and appointments. If you have a smartphone, set alarms and organize calendar reminders.
• Use a printed calendar or the clock, calendar, and alarm functions on your smartphone to keep track of time and remember important dates.
• Label photographs of people you frequently encounter with their names.

What is the best way to plan your day?

• Get organized. Using a daily planner can help you accomplish the things you intend to do throughout the day.
• Find activities that you enjoy and can safely engage in.
• Try to do what you need to do during the times of day when you feel your best.
• Allow yourself time to do the things you need to do. Never rush or let others rush you.
• Take breaks if you struggle with something.
• Seek help if needed.

How can I prevent getting lost?

• Request someone to accompany you when you go out.
• Ask for assistance if needed and explain that you have a memory problem.
• If you have a smartphone, set your home address or the desired destination in a map application. Even better, enable the speech function of the map application for step-by-step directions.

What facilitates communication?

• Never rush.
• If necessary, ask the person you’re speaking with to repeat what they said or to speak more slowly if you didn’t understand.
• Avoid distracting noises and find a quiet place to talk.

Can I continue driving?

• Discuss driving safety with your doctor. Anyone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease will eventually need to stop driving. Driving is a complex and demanding task. Even individuals with mild symptoms are at significant risk of motor vehicle accidents. It is a dangerous situation for both you and others. Talk to your family and doctor about alternative transportation options.

How can I take care of myself at home?

• Your doctor can advise you on how to seek assistance with shopping, meals (including home delivery), and transportation.
• Ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to keep a spare key to your home.
• Request assistance from a friend or family member to organize your cupboards and drawers to make finding things easier.
• Keep a list of important and emergency contact numbers by the telephone.

How can I manage my responsibilities?

• Ask a family member to check on household matters (such as electrical appliances, spoiled food, etc.) for you.
• Arrange for your retirement pension or Social Security benefits and ensure they are delivered directly to you.
• If you have difficulty managing your accounts and keeping records, inform your bank. They may provide special services for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.