Caring for Someone with Dementia

If you or a loved one is taking care of someone with dementia, there are some key items to remember. Whether they are in assisted living services, retirement living, or in-home care, these gentle reminders are a helpful way to understand some of the items that caregivers may be faced with. Dementia patients that are in assisted living in Connecticut have some of the best caregivers around; here are some of the general thoughts on the topic.

Distractions and Simplicity

Try to keep the number of distractions to a minimum. Having a television, a radio, or an open window could be too much "noise" for the dementia patient. Close the drapes, and only keep one item available that they can be tuned into. Turn off the television when you want to converse for the best responses. Keep the activities simple, which may mean breaking down some tasks into smaller steps that you can have them focus on. Keep your words precise and to the point, make your questions easy to understand and requiring no more than a yes or a no for the best outcome.

Stay Positive

There may be tremendous frustration when caring for someone with dementia. Allowing yourself and others to always remain positive and upbeat when speaking or interacting with the dementia patient can be a great reward; remember that the dementia patient doesn't realize that they may not be answering you correctly or talking about the same story for the fifth time. Listen more than you speak - the dementia sufferer may be 'speaking' more with gestures and body language than they can project through words.

Stave Off Disappointment

Your loved one may become upset or frustrated that they are not able to convey what they are trying to. When this happens, suggest a walk or something that they enjoy so that they can get a change of view. Perhaps going for one of their favorite meals or hobbies can lighten the mood.

Don't try to change the person, listen and do your best to keep them happy and healthy while remaining as least stressed as you can be.

Key Takeaways:

• Listen more than you speak
• Ask simple questions, preferably with a 'yes' or 'no' response needed
• Always remain positive
• Keep it simple with plenty of small steps

Need Help?

If you're interested in learning more about Lifestyle Transitions Specialized Assisted Living and Memory Support community in Shelton, CT, visit our website https://www.umh.org/wesley-village/lifestyle-transitions or contact us here.