It is difficult to see someone you love lose their cognitive abilities and independence. You may also be dealing with new behavioral issues. Caring for a person with dementia requires patience and an openness to try new methods.
Get Support For Yourself
Today, there are many active support groups for caregivers. These groups can teach coping and relaxation skills, provide resources, and teach new caregiving skills. They can also provide a place for a caregiver to feel as though they are not alone in this.
Take Things Step by Step
Break tasks into a steps. This is less overwhelming to a person with dementia. This also allows the opportunity to offer small cues, instead of completing the entire task for the person.
Be Open and Patient
The person with dementia may be struggling to tell you something. Be patient and aware of the many ways that they may be trying to tell you something. Watch their body language—this will help you understand what they’re communicating, if their words are confusing.
Speak Clearly
Speak slowly and in a low voice. Reassure your loved one if they get frustrated. Repeat your question or statement, or rephrase it if necessary.
Speak Simply
To avoid confusion, make statements and questions more simply than you might normally. If you ask a question, make sure it won’t be too complicated for them to answer.
Go Further Back in Time
It may be difficult for the patient to remember short-term events, but they may remember events that took place years ago. Have them share positive memories they may have about their past.
Distraction and Redirection
If the patient becomes frustrated, it is okay to make changes. First, acknowledge the person’s feelings and comfort them. Remember that it is okay to change the subject or even move to a different location, if that helps alleviate the frustration.
Get Moving
Restlessness is often a symptom of dementia. Allow time for some physical exercise to reduce restlessness—figure out what kind of exercise the person prefers and make time for the activity.
Limit Distractions
Before speaking to the person with dementia, make sure that there are no distractions, such as noise or sudden movements. Make eye contact and use their name when speaking to make sure their attention is focused.
Stay Positive
Your loved one can feel how you are feeling. It is okay to still smile and joke with the person. Remember that this is a learning process for you and your loved one with dementia—have patience, be mindful of any needs that may arise, and don’t forget to keep your own support network close while you act as caregiver for one suffering dementia.
Informational Credit to Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care
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