Caring for your loved one with dementia can be incredibly tough at times. It’s not just about managing their symptoms but also the emotional rollercoaster of watching someone you love change.
Kensington Place Redwood City understands the struggle of caring for a loved one with Dementia. We’re hosting, “Top Ten Things You Need to Know about Loving & Caring for Someone with Dementia” to provide practical tips and community support.
Join Stephanie Peters, MPH, CMC, CSA, CMDCP, Founder of enABLE Care Management, as she shares essential advice, resources, and tips when memory loss strikes. Learn the top 10 tips that can help you understand and plan for the memory loss experience.
Learn how to positively manage the daily challenges of caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s. We’ll offer practical advice that makes each day more manageable for both of you.
What are the basic needs of a person with dementia?
Your loved one with dementia might have trouble with everyday tasks like getting dressed or eating. They rely on you for gentle reminders and a steady routine to navigate their day comfortably.
Communication gets tougher, too. They may need help understanding complex sentences or remembering the thread of a conversation. Keep your words clear and simple, and give them time to respond.
Safety is another major concern. As children’s awareness of risks diminishes, you must monitor their environment more closely to prevent accidents.
Above all, they need your emotional support. Confusion and frustration can be scary, but your reassurance provides the comfort and security they need.
Remember, you’re not just managing their physical care—helping them feel safe and valued despite the confusion.
1. Stick to a routine
Maintaining a consistent daily schedule helps reduce confusion and anxiety.
- Set regular times for meals, bathing, and activities.
- Stick to the same schedule daily. For example, have breakfast at 8 a.m., lunch at noon, and dinner at 6 p.m.
- Use visual aids like calendars and clocks with large numbers to remind them of daily tasks.
2. Communicate clearly
Effective communication eases frustration for both of you.
- Speak slowly and clearly, using short sentences.
- Use simple words and sentences like “Time to eat” instead of “We should have our meal now.”
- Rely on non-verbal cues like gentle touches and eye contact to convey your message.
- Be patient and avoid arguing. Redirect the conversation if they get upset.
3. Stay active and engaged
Physical and mental activities boost mood and cognitive function.
- Encourage daily walks around the neighborhood or in a nearby park.
- Introduce activities like gardening, which can involve simple tasks like watering plants.
- Offer puzzles, coloring books, or simple crafts to keep their minds active.
- Adapt activities to their current abilities, ensuring they are safe and enjoyable.
4. Make their home safer
Creating a safe environment prevents accidents and injuries.
- Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter from walkways.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom and hallways to help with stability.
- Ensure adequate lighting throughout the home, especially in hallways and staircases.
- Use locks or alarms on doors to prevent wandering and ensure their safety.
5. Handle their behavior changes
Dementia will likely cause behavioral changes in your loved one, making them act uncharacteristic of their old selves.
Use these tips to handle their new behavior changes as they occur.
- Stay calm and patient during episodes of agitation or anxiety.
- Distract with a favorite activity like watching a familiar movie or listening to soothing music.
- Create a quiet, comforting space for them to retreat when overwhelmed.
- Communicate changes in behavior with their healthcare provider for additional support and guidance.
6. Make mealtime easier
Proper nutrition is essential for your loved one’s health, especially as their food tastes may change.
- Serve balanced meals with a variety of nutrients.
- Offer small, frequent meals if appetite is an issue. Finger foods like fruit slices or cheese cubes can be easier to eat.
- Minimize distractions during mealtime by turning off the TV and creating a quiet environment.
- Use contrasting colors for plates and food to improve visibility and distinguish food items easily.
7. Encourage small wins
Boost their confidence by letting them do tasks on their own.
- Allow them to perform daily activities with minimal assistance, such as brushing their teeth or combing their hair.
- Provide visual cues and step-by-step instructions for tasks like setting the table or folding laundry.
- Assign simple tasks that give a sense of accomplishment, such as arranging flowers or sorting utensils.
8. Use memory helpers
Memory aids can reduce confusion and frustration.
- Use calendars, to-do lists, and labels around the house for reminders.
- Keep frequently used items in the same place, like keys by the door and glasses on the bedside table.
- Create a memory-friendly environment with familiar objects and photos to spark recognition and comfort.
9. Tap into their memories using music
Music can significantly improve mood and cognitive function.
- Create playlists of their favorite songs from their youth or significant life events.
- Use music to calm agitation and improve focus, especially during challenging times.
- Encourage singing along or playing simple instruments like a tambourine or maracas to engage them.
10. Practice patience and empathy
Understanding their emotional challenges can ease both your burdens.
- Stay calm and supportive, even when it’s tough. Take deep breaths to manage your stress.
- Acknowledge their feelings and frustrations without dismissing them.
- Offer reassurance and comfort regularly, using phrases like “I understand” and “It’s okay.”
Get expert dementia care at Kensington Place Redwood City
Kensington Place Redwood City, a premier memory care community for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia, embodies Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own.
We ensure a loving and supportive environment for our residents with amenities such as all-day dining, on-site rehabilitation, and continuous nursing care.
Learn more about Kensington Place Redwood City by scheduling a tour of our beautiful community.