One of the biggest struggles caregivers face is dealing with the difficult behaviors of the person they are caring for. Dressing, bathing, eating, basic activities of daily living; often become a challenge to manage for both the person with Alzheimer's and the caregiver. Making a daily plan does help caregivers cope. Each person with Alzheimer's is unique and responds differently, and the person slowly changes over the course of the disease.

Here are a few helpful suggestions.

Schedule wisely

Determine the time of day when your loved one is most calm and agreeable. Schedule the most difficult tasks, such as bathing or medical appointments, for that time period. Established routines help make the day more predictable and less confusing.

Let him or her help

Involve your loved one in tasks as much as possible. Perhaps your husband can shave himself if you turn on the electric razor and put it in his hand. Maybe your mother can dress herself if you lay out the clothes in the order she has to wear them.

Limit choices

Having fewer options makes deciding easier. For example, provide two outfits to choose between - not a cupboard full of clothes. Reduce distractions at mealtimes or during conversations so that your loved one can better focus on one thing at a time.

Take more time

Expect things to take longer than they used to. Schedule extra time to complete even simple tasks so that you don't hurry your loved one or yourself. Provide instructions one step at a time.

Allow your loved one to do as much as possible with the least amount of assistance. Relax your standards and don't worry about the way things should be done. Bathing, for example, may not be necessary every day, especially if it's upsetting for your loved one. Try switching to sponge baths on some days. You could choose clothing that is comfortable, easy to get on and off, and easy to care for such as elastic waists and Velcro which will help minimize struggles with buttons and zips.

Keeping the person safe
This is one of the most important aspects of care giving. Some people with Alzheimer's have a tendency to wander away from their home. Making sure that the person carries some kind of identification or wears a medical bracelet and keeping doors locked does help.

Alzheimer's disease impairs judgment and problem-solving skills

This increases your loved one's risk of injury. Be sure to secure or put away anything that could cause danger, both inside and outside the house. Avoid throw rugs, extension cords and any clutter that can cause your loved one to trip or fall.

People with Alzheimer's want to eat all the time

You could serve several small meals during the day. Encourage the person to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to avoid dehydration. As the disease progresses, be aware of the increased risk of choking because of chewing and swallowing problems.

Communication with someone who has Alzheimer's can be challenging

Call the person by name, making sure you have his or her attention before speaking. Choose simple words and short sentences and use a gentle, calm tone of voice. Try to frame questions and instructions in a positive way. Be patient and allow enough time for a response. Be careful not to interrupt. The person may be struggling to find a word or communicate a thought. You could gently try to provide the word he or she is looking for.

Incorporating exercise and physical activity

Including exercise into the daily routine has benefits for both the person with Alzheimer's and the caregiver. It improves health and also provides a meaningful activity for both to share and also helps everyone sleep better. Be realistic in your expectations and you can start slowly with a short walk around the yard.

Approach of night time may be a difficult time

Many people with Alzheimer's become restless, agitated, and irritable around dinnertime, often referred to as 'sun downing' syndrome. Exercise during the day and limited daytime napping is good but make sure that the person gets adequate rest during the day because fatigue can increase the likelihood of late afternoon restlessness. Set a quiet, peaceful tone in the evening to encourage sleep. Try to develop a routine and keep bedtime at a similar time each evening.

Find activities that the person can do and stay interested in

Building on current skills generally works better than trying to teach something new. Help the person get started on a simple activity. Break the activity down into small steps and praise the person for each step he or she completes. If you see signs of agitation or frustration with an activity gently distract the person to something else.

Incontinence

Many people with Alzheimer's begin to experience incontinence, or the inability to control their bladder and/or bowels. Incontinence can be upsetting to the person and difficult for the caregiver. Sometimes incontinence is due to physical illness and early diagnosis and treatment does help to a great extent so be sure to discuss it with a doctor. Maintain a routine for taking the person to the bathroom and stick to it as closely as possible. Develop a bedtime routine and watch for signs that the person may have to go to the bathroom, such as restlessness or pulling at clothes and respond quickly.

Disease progression

As the disease progresses, a person with Alzheimer's may experience hallucinations and/or delusions. Hallucinations are when the person sees, hears, smells, tastes, or feels something that is not there. Delusions are false beliefs from which the person cannot be dissuaded. If this happens avoid arguing with the person about what he or she sees or hears. Try to respond to the feelings and provide reassurance and comfort. Distracting the person or going out for a walk may help. Make sure the person is safe and does not have access to anything he or she could use to harm anyone.