Managing everyday tasks even those we take for granted can become increasingly difficult for the affected person. It is important to support them with these tasks so to preserve independence and promote self dignity and worth. Below are some strategies to assist in maintaining a person's independence.

• Help them maintain independence. Support and encourage them to do whatever they can for themselves and only offer help when needed. This is not always easy and you may find it frustrating to watch them complete tasks that you could perform more efficiently and effectively. Don't allow yourself to take over tasks they may be struggling with unless requested as they may lose their confidence and are less likely to attempt things for themselves in the future. Doing things for themselves will preserve their dignity, confidence and self-esteem that will further enhance their physical, social and emotional well-being.
• Offer help sensitively. Certain tasks may become increasingly difficult while others may remain manageable for much longer as the disease progresses. By helping sensitively and adjusting the level of help you offer, you are enabling independence and giving them the opportunity to maintain current skills.
• Make them feel safe. Feeling safe is essential for our sense of well-being. Always reassure the person you are caring for their safety, and avoid giving unreasonable or unrealistic tasks to the individual as this may impact negatively on their sense of safety and wellbeing.
• Make sure they have things to do. Encourage the person to carry out simple activities around the home or the garden to make them feel needed and useful while maintaining their everyday skills. Remember, it is more important that the person feels useful than that they complete the task perfectly.
• Leisure activities are also important. Try to help the person maintain skills related to their past and present interest and habits. Encourage the person to go outdoors, possibly on accompanied outings to the shops, garden centres and other public places. When taking them outdoors, make sure you plan ahead, consider daily routines and check accessibility of the area (i.e. lifts, toilets) to avoid indifferent and negative feelings about outdoor and leisure activities.
• Consider using memory aids. Memory aids and other reminders can be helpful in prompting the individual about daily activities that are occurring on particular days. This helps eliminate the element of surprise or change that can be distressing for people with HD.
• Help them relax. Help the person feel calm and secure. They will be at their best if they are relaxed. Symptoms of HD such as the involuntary movements can be exacerbated with stress and anxiety. Maintaining a calm environment will assist in promoting optimal functioning for the person with HD.
• Seek professional advice. Professionals such as HD specialist, GP, Occupational therapist, physiotherapist and Speech pathologists may be able to provide strategies and advice on aids and equipment, and different approaches to practical tasks which the person finds particularly hard to cope with.