It takes the edge off anxiety of Alzheimer's patients

(The results may indeed surprise you)

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There are many people searching for natural remedies these days. One antidote I've found that takes the edge off anxiety of Alzheimer's patients is loveable pets.

When I was caring for my dad there were times where he would become satiated with confusion, I would simply place our cat named Kitty on his lap and casually tell him that Kitty was lonesome and in dire need of love and attention. Giving both his hands and mind something to focus on, his panic seemed to evaporate as soon as the purring commenced.

One of the characteristics of Alzheimer's is a loss of ambition. Having a pet being part of their environment helps motivate them by giving them a sense of responsibility. Many times I've walked into our kitchen and found five bowls of milk on the floor; I never had to worry about the cat starving. Then my father would repeatedly ask if I had fed the cat - repeatedly. But I learned our furry friend made my life easier. Pet ownership has been associated to having lower blood triglyceride levels in your body, which helps increase activity, and hopefully, socialization.

A pet dog may help encourage physical activities, might even inspire the patient and play a bit or go for a walk, thus creating a sense of needfulness. Patients with dementia are susceptible to loneliness and depression. Having a pet around will help break up the solitude that the forgetfulness creates. Pets seem to be sensitive to the patient's needs and most enjoy attention. They don't get upset and walk away when hearing the same story over and over or hearing a constant chatter that makes absolutely no sense. Perhaps they are better listeners or at the very least, not so judgmental. The ideal pet is one that is calm and gentle, not hyperactive or loud. Select a new pet with great care. If your loved one's a person who has always been afraid of dogs, then a dog is probably not the answer. Maybe an aquarium full of fish, hamster, rabbit or bird... any pet that gives the patient a sensation of feeling needed.

Be watchful. You still have to observe your patient constantly. Overfeeding or trying to walk the dog alone will become common occurrences which just might leave you facing a spell of anxiety. If a pet can decrease a patient's anxiety and leave them feeling calm, you've just accomplished a part of your goal. Like any other type of intervention, this might not work for everyone but I believe it's worth a try. If you have a friend or neighbor who owns a pet, ask them to bring their four-legged friend over for a visit. The results may indeed surprise you. By GARY JOSEPH LeBLANC ...http://www2.hernandotoday.com

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