If your loved one needs help bathing, it can often become a difficult time for everyone.

Try this:

1. A sponge bath in the tub or on a chair instead of a shower
2. Let your loved one do as much as possible, even if it takes longer
3. Plan the bath or shower for the time of day when your loved one is at their best

Communicating can be difficult with people experiencing confusion and memory loss.

Try this:

1. Use simple words and short sentences with a calm and soothing tone of voice
2. Maintain a respectful approach and avoid speaking to your loved one like they are a child
3. Don't rush them– give them time to express themselves

Dressing is something your loved one may be able to do for a relatively long time. It might take them longer than it used to;but if they are safe, let them do it themselves, even if it takes all morning.

Try this:

1. Find clothes with larger buttons or replace closures with Velcro
2. Look for pants or skirts with elastic pull-on waists
3. If removing undergarments is a problem, use wrap around skirts as clothes

Preparing and sharing meals with your loved one can be a great way to spend time together. Promoting your loved one's independence as much and as long as possible can also increase the enjoyment.

Try this

1. Use plates with a deep lip to help food stay on the plate
2. Prepare more foods that don't require utensils, like sandwiches
3. Try nutritional drinks to supplement a decreased diet (ask your health care team for suggestions)

When grooming becomes difficult, look for ways to simplify the process and make it safer.

Try this:

1. Try a simple haircut that is easy to manage
2. When helping with grooming tasks, move slowly and explain what you are doing in a calm voice so that you don't startle them
3. Look for long handled hairbrushes, combs and toothbrushes

Managing your loved one's sleep problems will ensure that both of you will get more rest.

Try this:

1. Provide at least a little exercise every day – even if it is just a walk around the yard
2. Engage them in a quiet and calming activity before bedtime
3. Keep a consistent schedule of wake and sleep times

It can be frustrating for your loved one if they have trouble getting in and out of bed or a chair.

Try this:

1. Try adding a transfer handle to the bed – it makes it easier to turn in bed as well as get up
2. Try a transfer belt (also called a gait belt) – it is a wide belt put around the waist of your loved one and gives you something to hold onto to either support or move them
3. Look for furniture risers that can increase the height of beds or couches – it will make it easier for your loved one to get in and out while alleviating the stress on your back when you help them move

Acknowledging that you need help to use the toilet can be frustrating and embarrassing for anyone.

Try this:

1. Install hand rails or a toilet safety frame around the toilet
2. Get a raised toilet seat (they come in different heights)
3. Use disposable underwear or sleep pads that can help with accidents, particularly at nighttime

Having friends and family visit can help relieve social isolation and depression, but be aware of fatigue or agitation your loved one may experience from having too much stimulation.

Try this:

1. Pay attention to how your loved one responds to visitors
2. Keep visits short without any expectation of "entertaining" the guest
3. Try having visiting hours scheduled into your daily routine and use that time to play games, go for a walk, or do something else that your loved one finds enjoyable

Most people with CJD experience trouble with walking, balance and coordination at some point.

Try this:

1. If you loved one is having trouble sitting up, consider getting a chair belt to prevent them from falling out of the chair or wheelchair
2. Keep your living area clear of obstacles that could trip someone
3. Install hand rails or place furniture in ways that provide stability along walking paths