General Nursing©

Alzheimer's Disease

Meals and nutrition

• Allow person to select food
• Observe for difficulty swallowing
• Avoid hot foods. Cut solid foods. Cut solid foods, such as meat, into small portions. Finger foods or those that require little hand coordination may encourage better eating.
• Suggest supplements if nutrition intake is inadequate.

Sleep and Rest

• Allow to rest and sleep at will; expect irregular patterns. Things that may facilitate rest and sleep include food, warm baths, or exercise prior to bedtime.
• Mild tranquilizers and hypnotics may help, but use cautiously.
• Expect some agitation from some medications.

Exercise and Activity

• Allow enough space for safe walking activities
• Encourage walks with an attendant
• Provide passive exercise for those confined to bed

Elimination

• Monitor intake and output record
• Encourage fluids, fiber in the diet, and exercise to avoid constipation
• Label urinals and bathroom door
• Expect confused people to use any convenient container or the floor for elimination purposes