A caregiver, also known as a caretaker, can care for another person. In the United States, millions of people take care of a friend or family member suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia support condition.
Furthermore, sometimes caregivers reside with the patient or nearby, or they may live far away. For many families, caring for a person with dementia involves multiple individuals sharing tasks and responsibilities, making it a multifaceted and collaborative task. No matter what type of caretaker you are, taking responsibility for another person can be demanding. The following tips may help you in everyday care and tasks.
Make a Safe Home
Maintaining a secure environment is essential in assisted living. How you complete this is slightly different, depending on your loved one’s illness. For a dementia patient, there are various things you can do.
Avoid scattered mats and keep paths clear of obstacles. Like many hospital patients, dementia patients have a significant fall risk. Walkers can be helpful when moving about, so have one nearby.
Hide the automobile keys. Some patients with very early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease may still drive securely under some circumstances. However, as memory and decision-making skills decline, discontinuing these abilities is essential. A driver suffering from dementia cannot respond when faced with a surprise on the road.
Permit your loved one to go to outdoor areas, but only if it is a surrounding space that prevents them from traveling or climbing. The individual’s physical capabilities are truly remarkable when they are determined.
Simplify Your Communication
Dementia significantly impacts a person’s ability to communicate. As the condition gets worse, people suffering from dementia often find it challenging to understand information and respond appropriately. Caregivers can benefit from simplifying communication by:
- Being patient.
- Using simple words.
- Using short sentences.
Instead of asking open-ended questions, provide two simple options like a sandwich or porridge instead of inquiring about their breakfast preferences.
Respond with Affection and Reassurance.
People with dementia frequently experience confusion, anxiety, and self-doubt. Further, they often get confused about the truth and may remember things that never happened. Don’t try to persuade them that they are incorrect.
You should pay attention to the feelings they are displaying (which are real) and reply with verbal and physical expressions of ease, care, and reassurance. Holding hands, touching, hugging, and praising can trigger a response when other methods fail.
Explore and Encourage Your loved one’s Self-Identity.
Acquiring dementia is a significant life change that does not diminish the original identity of your loved one. Fathers, mothers, children, and grandparents hold essential roles and responsibilities today as they play a crucial role in society.
As a caregiver, you must highlight that dementia doesn’t take away an individual’s identity but is a new aspect of their personality. This in no way describes them but is only a portion of them. Engaging in activities, hobbies, and social groups that align with their interests, strengths, and skills can help them regain their purpose in life. Even assisting them by linking with someone going through a similar journey makes a huge difference, knowing that you are not facing this alone.
Avoid Overstimulation
People with dementia often experience a high level of fatigue. As caregivers engage their loved ones in fulfilling activities, avoiding overstimulation is crucial. Allow time and space in your schedule for your loved ones to step away from the activity.
For example, during festive seasons and family celebrations: Caregivers should think about hosting family members rather than bringing their loved one to several different houses throughout the day. This confirms that their beloved remains in a familiar setting and can take a break when wanted.
