### Helping Your Mom with Alzheimer’s When She Gets Scared
If your mom has Alzheimer’s, you might notice that she gets scared easily. This can be very distressing for both of you. Here are some simple and effective ways to help her feel safer and more secure.
#### 1. **Stay Calm and Patient**
When your mom gets scared, it’s essential to remain calm and patient. Avoid reacting with concern, fear, or anger, as this can make her feel more anxious. Instead, try to understand what she’s feeling and reassure her gently. For example, you might say, “Mom, I know you’re worried. Let’s think about how we can fix this so it doesn’t happen again. I know you really want to stay home.”
#### 2. **Use Reassuring Messages**
Sometimes, people with Alzheimer’s can become anxious because they forget things or feel uncertain. One way to help is by using reassuring messages. For instance, you can write notes or use a whiteboard to remind her of important things, like “You’re okay,” “Everyone’s fine,” and “You don’t owe anyone any money.” This can help reduce her anxiety and make her feel more secure[2].
#### 3. **Create a Routine**
People with Alzheimer’s often find comfort in routines. Try to establish a daily routine that includes regular times for meals, exercise, and sleep. This can help her feel more in control and reduce confusion. For example, you might say, “Let’s have breakfast at 8 am every day,” or “We’ll go for a walk at 10 am.”
#### 4. **Minimize Distractions**
Clutter and noise can be overwhelming for someone with Alzheimer’s. Try to keep the environment simple and quiet. For example, you might reduce the number of people in the room or play relaxing music to create a calm atmosphere[3].
#### 5. **Encourage Independence**
While it’s important to help your mom, it’s also crucial to respect her independence. Allow her to do things on her own, even if you need to supervise. For example, you might lay out her clothes in the morning but give her privacy to dress herself. This helps her feel more in control and valued[5].
#### 6. **Communicate Clearly**
When talking to your mom, speak slowly and clearly. Avoid rushing conversations or correcting her too harshly. Instead, offer gentle guidance and be prepared to answer the same question multiple times. This helps her feel more secure and understood[5].
By following these simple steps, you can help your mom feel safer and more secure when she gets scared. Remember to always be patient, reassuring, and respectful, and to encourage her independence while providing the support she needs.
