Dementia Care

What are the Stages of Dementia?

How to Care for Someone With Dementia

Dementia is a loss of cognitive function that occurs with certain diseases. It affects memory, thinking and behavior. Caring for a loved one with Dementia requires a ton of patience and may require multiple people to care for them. Many tasks and resposnibilites must be split between family members, friends, caregivers, etc. to avoid burnout. Therefore, it is important to understand the severity of one's Dementia and plan accordingly. As the disease progresses, one must consider and understand how the person with dementia views the world. Recognize and talk about the challenges a person with dementia goes through, especially with Activities of Daily Living. A few tips to keep in mind would be:

• Maintaining a routine such as grooming, bathing, and eating at the same time everyday.

• Assist in writing To-Do lists, appointments and events on the calendar.

• Create a system for medication reminders.

• Buy loose-fitting, easy wearing clothing and shoes that have velcro fasteners instead of shoe laces, buttons and buckles.

• Install and utilize shower chairs and railings to avoid slips and falls.

• Be gentle, respectful, and patient when telling the person what you're going to do, step by step while you are assisting with Activities of Daily Living.

• Serving meals in a consistent, familiar place, and give the person enough time to eat.

• Taking regular walks can help improve communication skills and prevent wandering.

• Play calming music to help ease anxiety, restlessness and improve sleep and behavior.

• Keep lights on at night to prevent falls and lessen confusion

Communication and Behavior For People With Dementia

• Speaking calmly, listening respectfully and offering reassurance to someone with Dementia is crucial. Listen and understand their concerns and frustrations. Show them you understand their frustrations, concerns, fear and anger.

• Allow the person to keep a sense of control in their lives.

• Be respectful of their personal space.

• Build quiet times and activities throughout the day.

• Keep well-loved objects and photos around the house to help make the person feel more at ease.

• Remind the person instead of saying "Don't you remember?"

• Encourage a two-way conversation

• Try distracting a person with an activity such as a photo album or familiar book if you are having trouble communicating.

for more information, check out Tips for Caregivers and Families of People With Dementia,