Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative disorder that affects the brain, causing memory loss and cognitive decline. As the disease progresses, individuals with Alzheimer’s may experience difficulty sleeping, increased agitation and anxiety, and a decrease in overall well-being. One way to help alleviate these symptoms is by using a weighted blanket. Weighted blankets have been shown to have numerous benefits for individuals with Alzheimer’s, such as improving sleep quality, reducing restlessness, and increasing feelings of calmness. However, it can be challenging for a person with Alzheimer’s to understand and use a weighted blanket correctly. In this article, we will discuss how to help a person with Alzheimer’s use a weighted blanket effectively.
What is a Weighted Blanket?
A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is filled with small weights, usually glass beads or plastic pellets, evenly distributed throughout the blanket. The weight of the blanket provides deep pressure stimulation, which has a calming effect on the body. This sensation mimics the feeling of being hugged or held, providing comfort and promoting relaxation.
How Does a Weighted Blanket Help?
Individuals with Alzheimer’s often struggle with sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and frequent awakenings. Using a weighted blanket can help improve sleep quality by increasing serotonin and melatonin levels in the body. These hormones regulate sleep patterns and promote relaxation, leading to better sleep.
Weighted blankets also have a grounding effect, which helps reduce restlessness and agitation. People with Alzheimer’s can become easily overwhelmed by sensory stimuli, leading to increased anxiety and irritability. The deep pressure stimulation from a weighted blanket can help reduce these feelings and induce a sense of calmness.
In addition to aiding in sleep and reducing agitation, weighted blankets have also been shown to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. High levels of cortisol can have negative effects on cognitive function, so reducing these levels can improve overall well-being for individuals with Alzheimer’s.
How to Help a Person With Alzheimer’s Use a Weighted Blanket
1. Choose the Right Weight
The first step in helping a person with Alzheimer’s use a weighted blanket is to choose the right weight for them. The recommended weight of the blanket should be around 10% of the individual’s body weight. However, it is essential to consult with their doctor or therapist to determine the appropriate weight based on their specific needs and preferences.
2. Involve Them in the Process
It is crucial to involve the person with Alzheimer’s in the process of choosing and using a weighted blanket. This can help them feel a sense of control and ownership over the blanket, making them more likely to use it regularly. You can ask them to touch and feel different weights and textures of blankets and let them choose the one that feels most comfortable to them.
3. Introduce the Weighted Blanket Gradually
Introducing a new item, especially something as sensory-driven as a weighted blanket, can be overwhelming for individuals with Alzheimer’s. It is essential to introduce the blanket gradually, starting with short periods of use and gradually increasing the duration. This will allow their body to adjust to the sensation and avoid any initial discomfort.
4. Use the Blanket During Relaxing Activities
Using the weighted blanket during relaxing activities can help create a positive association with it. You can encourage the person with Alzheimer’s to use the blanket while watching TV, reading a book, or listening to music. This will help them feel more comfortable and relaxed while using the blanket.
5. Be Mindful of Safety Precautions
It is crucial to ensure that the weighted blanket is safe for the person with Alzheimer’s to use. Avoid using a weighted blanket if they have any respiratory issues or if they are unable to remove the blanket by themselves. It is also important to monitor them while using the blanket to prevent any accidents or injuries.
6. Be Patient and Understanding
It may take some time for the person with Alzheimer’s to get used to the weighted blanket. It is essential to be patient and understanding, as they may not understand how the blanket works or why it is beneficial for them. Encourage them to use the blanket regularly, but do not force them if they are resistant. It is essential to respect their choices and preferences.
In conclusion, using a weighted blanket can provide numerous benefits for individuals with Alzheimer’s. However, it is crucial to help them use the blanket correctly and safely. By involving them in the process, introducing the blanket gradually, and being patient and understanding, you can help a person with Alzheimer’s experience the calming effects of a weighted blanket and improve their overall well-being.
