Guide to Providing Dementia Care

Dementia and the care associated with assisting those affected by the disease can be an overwhelming task. Not only is this something that is difficult for the patient, it can also be hard on the person providing the dementia care, the caregiver. The best way to care for someone that has dementia is by being prepared for what needs to be done. This includes the development of a routine for feeding, bathing, safety, and more.

Prepare for the Care Needed

With a diagnosis of dementia, feelings of fear, anxiety, shock, and grief are common responses. You think about how your life is going to change and how your loved ones are going to be affected. Some helpful things to do are: research the disease, find nearby resources dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, and make a plan for the future.

It is important to decide who will make all of the medical and financial decisions moving forward. Next, consider who is going to do the caregiving. Finally, decide where the patient is going to live.

Develop a Routine

Those suffering will have issues with their memory. By creating a routine, daily life will be more comfortable and less stressful. Activities such as eating, bathing, dressing, and bedtime should be at the same time each day. This consistency gives the patient a better orientation of time.

Let them do as much as they can. This may be something as simple as putting their dishes away, but this keeps them active and involved.

Communication

There are guidelines to follow when providing dementia care. It is easy for a patient to become confused and overwhelmed when they are not able to properly express themselves. Stay calm and keep your messages short. Let them know who you are if they seem to be unsure. Even if you have known them their entire life, it is common for dementia patients to forget people. Use their name and speak slowly. Ask simple questions that can be answered with a yes or no.

Feeding

Changes in eating are common. As the person providing dementia care, it is important to assist the person with dementia while they eat. Let them know what they are eating, help them use utensils, and keep feeding times consistent.

Dressing

With a decrease in coordination comes the need for assistance with dressing. Allow the person to always do as much as they can. Remain sensitive to their feelings, as it is normal for them to become frustrated. Fine motor movements such as buttoning a shirt are often a struggle for patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Bathing

Bathing is personal. Approach the situation in a calm and open-minded way in order to maintain dignity and respect for the patient. It is important to assist the patient into and out of the tub or shower because they are vulnerable to slipping and falling in these situations.

Getting Around

Advanced dementia can make it difficult for a person to move around. Dementia care involves assisting with getting them in and out of the bath, out of bed, or helping after falls. It is important to take into consideration your own safety and learn how to complete these tasks without harming yourself as well.

Safety at home

Keep dementia patients safe by adding equipment that is especially made to assist those who have trouble with moving around, balance, and reactions. This can include additional railings and handles. Be sure that no major changes are done in a short amount of time because this could cause more confusion for the patient.

Home Care or Assisted Living

Don’t forget about living arrangements when making plans. It may be possible to keep a person at home and provide around the clock care. Just be aware that as dementia progresses, the patient can become increasingly difficult to assist and it may be more beneficial for both the patient and the caretaker if the patient lives in a nursing facility.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with dementia, the best course of action is to create a plan for future care. Setting realistic expectations for the future will make the progression of the disease more manageable for both the patient and the caregiver.