Alzheimer's disease can broadly be categorized in seven stages.  The severe stage of Alzheimer's suggests that it is probably around five years since the disease was first diagnosed. Bodily functions are now failing. The caregiver has, over the years, taken on more and more responsibility for the care and wellbeing of the person with Alzheimer's. In this sharepost I have put together some tips to help you be a more effective caregiver in the severe, stage 7, of Alzheimer's. 

First Big Rule-Caregivers Must Look After Themselves

You need to get support and care for yourself, from friends, family, through your local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and from websites like OurAlzheimer's. You also need outside agencies to help you where possible. Respite care facilities in nursing homes for people with dementia are going to be increasingly important as are Day Care centers. It will give you time to re-energize as much as possible and can give you some "Me" time.

How to find Respite Help for the Caregiver

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Memory in Severe Stage Alzheimer's

All memory in stage 7 Alzheimer's is severely compromised. The person may still have lucid moments and you can still use these times to interact - perhaps using photos. Do not remind them what they have forgotten. As a caregiver you have to understand that the devastating brain damage caused by Alzheimer's means they often do not recognize you and may call you by other names. It can feel very distressing but it is also an overt sign of the extent of brain damage you are working with.

How to Maximize Communication Skills in Severe Stage Alzheimer's

In the severe stage of Alzheimer's the person has lost the ability to interact properly and verbal skills are radically changed. Expect conversational replies to be just single words or gestures. Caregivers have to find other means to understand what the message may be.

• Words often have to be interpreted or are better understood with other forms of communication. These include things such as body language, through noises such as grunts, shouts grimaces, laughing, crying, or through their refusal to do things such as eat or move.
• Touch becomes more important to both the caregiver and the care receiver. However, it can soothe as well as cause alarm if the person with Alzheimer's does not understand what is happening, for example taking them to the bathroom.
• Face them when you talk. Talk slowly and in a gentle and soft way (or at the level they can hear). Lighten the situation with smiles, distraction-"look outside, what a beautiful tree/day etc", "Chocolate cake for lunch".

How to Help People with Severe Stage Alzheimer's Do Tasks

Most skills, such as dressing and washing, are rarely initiated but if they are assist rarther than take over. Approach tasks by explaining briefly and simply what you are going to do. Talk in a calm, warm and friendly manner. Do not shout.