Dementia is a problem that many people face as they age. It isn't something we need to be embarrassed about or ashamed of. Memory loss is a common issue that comes with age. For some it may be more severe or come on more quickly than for others. The first step in caring for someone with mild or even sever dementia is simply educating yourself and learning how to help and what to avoid.
Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem solving or other thinking abilities. Understand that there is a difference between a healthy person forgetting what they walked into the kitchen to get, and someone suffering from dementia. True dementia is when the forgetfulness gets a step further and begins to interfere with your everyday life. It is also important to understand that there is a spectrum when it comes to dementia. It can begin as mild forgetfulness but can develop into a much bigger problem and can go as far as someone forgetting who they are or even how to speak. In our opinion, as long as there is a loving and patient caregiver, having dementia doesn't mean that someone needs to be put into an assisted living or memory care unit. This can often increase the problem as the person suffering from dementia becomes more isolated and may feel hopeless or abandoned. Here are some of our top tips to help you care for your loved one with dementia.
Tips to care for someone with dementia:
1) Try your best to keep a consistent routine
This doesn't mean everything has to be set in stone. Life happens and things come up. But suffering from dementia can be just as scary and frustrating for the diagnosed individual as it is for the caregiver. A routine helps them stay present and feel in control.
2) Create a system or reminders to help with medications
Taking or giving medication doesn't have to be intimidating. all it takes is some systems and organization. It can often be helpful to keep a notepad or paper to help track when medication need to be given. Keep everything in one place and keep it organized. The caregiver can set reminders on their phone to help them remember when to give medications. Also, talk to your doctor. Many times, a doctor can adjust dosages and when a medication needs to be taken to help simplify this process instead of having to give medications all throughout the day.
3) Be patient and respectful to the person with dementia
At times this is easier said than done, but you have to learn to be patient with your loved one. Hurrying them along often just makes them more stressed and frustrated as they struggle to do simple tasks like getting dressed or showering. But it is very important to step back and let them do as much as possible themselves. Even doing small things themselves like pulling on a shirt or washing themselves in the shower will help them not feel like a burden on you. When you do step in to help, be clear and tell the person step by step what you are going to do. At least then they will feel involved in the process.
4) Help them stay active
Staying physically active and exercising is huge when it comes to dementia. Now remember that staying active doesn't mean they have to go for a long walk everyday. Maybe just a walk to the porch. Or to the back yard. and exercise doesn't mean doing pushups or sit ups. Get creative and have fun as you do the activities with them. Lifting cans of soup is a classic. Go "chair running" as you move your legs and get some blood flowing while sitting in your chair. Maintaining skeletal muscle has been proven to help with many of the age related issues, including dementia so do your best and have fun with it.
5) Help them stay connected with others
Dementia can very quickly become a dark and lonely place. The loved one often feels alone and frustrated with their circumstances. But staying connected with family and friends can drastically change their attitude. Socialization can even help prevent the worsening of the forgetfulness. Connecting with others will become more work than it used to be. You will have to be the one to reach out for your loved one to some of their friends or family. Schedule time where others can come over and visit with your loved one. Or if needed, find a senior daytime care facility where they can go a few times a week to help them make friends and stay active.
To close, remember to stay positive. Your loved one is counting on you. That can feel overwhelming but if you take it day by day it is manageable. Follow these tips. Seek others help. and remember to make time for yourself. You will need a break as being a caregiver can become and fulltime job. Make time where others can step in and help care while you step out, relax, focus on yourself, maintain your own health and wellness both physically and mentally. This will only make you a better caregiver when the time comes to step back into that roll. If you feel alone or desperate for help as the caregiver, please reach out to others. Reach out to us at Poppy's Place. We would love to help in any way possible.
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