Alzheimer's Shadowing: What Caregivers Need to Know
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 6.9 million Americans 65 and older have Alzheimer’s, which is roughly one in nine people. This cognitive condition may lead to mood and personality changes, as well as other symptoms including:
- Memory loss
- Poor judgment and problem-solving skills
- Trouble completing normal daily tasks
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Fearfulness
- Not knowing where they are or what day it is
In-home caregivers who provide daily assistance to older adults with Alzheimer’s must be aware of these issues and equipped to properly handle them. However, one symptom may be more challenging for caregivers to navigate than others: shadowing.
What Is Shadowing?
Shadowing is when a person becomes overly clingy and expresses immense concern when their caregiver is out of sight. This can lead to anger, crying, and seniors asking their in-home caregiver repeatedly where they are.
Caregivers must be patient, compassionate, and respectful to cope with these frustrating behaviors while continuing to provide exceptional care.
Caregiver Tips For Managing A Senior’s Shadowing
1. Always Avoid Conflict.
Seniors with Alzheimer’s can get easily confused and upset. Caregivers must never fight fire with fire, as this may only escalate the problem. Refraining from conflict can help diffuse a situation.
If you start feeling frustrated, take a quick break to recollect your thoughts and emotions. Acknowledging your client’s feelings in a patient, empathetic way can help them feel understood and calm.
2. Provide Healthy Distractions.
When a senior with Alzheimer’s is fixated on your every move, it can heighten their shadowing. In-home caregivers can use healthy distractions to mitigate shadowing behavior. Learn your client’s favorite pastimes and provide tasks or activities that reflect their passions. You can also ask them to do repetitive tasks, like sorting napkins or filing papers. Ensure that the tasks are appropriate for their cognitive and ability levels.
Some healthy activities for distracting seniors with Alzheimer’s include:
- Artwork
- Puzzles
- Looking through old photo albums
These tasks will take the focus off you while giving the senior something to invest their attention into.
3. Record Yourself.
Creating a digital replacement of yourself can alleviate a senior’s worry and unease when you aren’t around. Grab your smartphone or digital camera and make a video of yourself singing, dancing, doing chores, cooking, or reading aloud. Teach your client how to play the video in your absence, so they can watch it whenever they feel the need. This gives them comfort and stability when you are in another room or off the clock.
Compassionate In-Home Care for Seniors with Alzheimer’s
Visiting Angels of Southwest Oklahoma City provides compassionate, personalized in-home caregiving solutions to seniors with Alzheimer’s throughout Southwest Oklahoma City, Moore, Norman, Mustang, Union City, Blanchard, Tuttle, and Newcastle. We will keep your loved one safe, comfortable, and healthy.
Contact us today at (405) 703-7676 for more information.