Supporting Seniors with Dementia - Tips for Family Caregivers
If you are caring for a senior with dementia in Edina or the surrounding area, Comfort Keepers can help.
Caring for a loved one in Edina who has been diagnosed with dementia can be an overwhelming and emotional experience even for the most seasoned caregiver. It can be incredibly difficult to watch a loved one deal with the symptoms of dementia such as changes in thinking, remembering, and reasoning. As a family caregiver, you want to provide the best possible care for your loved one and ensure that their needs are met, while also fulfilling your own. If you are a family caregiver supporting a senior with dementia in Edina, please know that you are not alone. There are resources available in Edina and the surrounding communities to help family caregivers live a balanced life.
Here are a few tips on what you can do to support your loved one with dementia (and yourself).
Understand Dementia and What to Expect
To provide the highest quality of care, It is important to understand what living with dementia looks like so that you can prepare yourself for the future, as the disease progresses. Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia, but knowing the common symptoms will help you better understand what your loved one is going through, and plan accordingly. Dementia can affect people differently, but there are certain behaviors like difficulty communicating, changes in mood or personality, and confusion that are often seen. The Mayo Clinic created a resource outlining 7 common symptoms of dementia to be aware of. Knowing what to expect will help you feel more prepared as you navigate your caregiving journey.
Create an Environment That Is Safe, Comfortable, and Familiar
Creating an environment that is safe, comfortable, and familiar is essential when caring for someone with dementia. Ensure that their home is well-lit and free from any clutter that could cause falls. Keep in mind that dementia can increase the risk of a fall because the disease can impact mobility, balance, and muscle. Because of the heightened risk of falls and wandering, it may be time to consider working with an in-home care agency, that can support your loved one when you are unavailable or need a break. We will discuss that in more detail later in this post.
Familiarity is also important when it comes to caring for someone with dementia. According to the Alzheimers project, people with dementia thrive on familiarity because it helps them feel comforted and calm. Focus on anything that sparks positive memories with your loved one. This could include things like familiar faces, familiar foods, familiar songs, and familiar places. At Comfort Keepers, we believe that there is no place more familiar than home for those dealing with dementia.
Maintain Daily Routines
Helping your loved one with dementia maintain a consistent daily routine is crucial. Focus on things that are within your control such as helping your loved one set a consistent time for meals, bathing, and going to bed. Sticking to a daily routine can help to reduce confusion and provide structure. Additionally, regular routines improve cognitive function, promote social engagement, and reduce stress levels.
Dementia Does Not Define Your Loved One
When providing care for your loved one, remember that dementia does not define them. As the disease progresses, you may experience moments of anger, confusion, and sadness. Keep a level head and remember that this is still your loved one and you are doing the best that you can. Dementia can also cause behavioral issues for those suffering from it, so preparing for episodes can help you remain calm and collected.
Know When You Need Help
There is absolutely nothing wrong with asking for help, it is completely normal for family caregivers to need support. At Comfort Keepers, we have helped many people in Edina and the surrounding area, through dementia care and our respite care services.
To learn more about Comfort Keepers, our services, and the communities that we serve, contact us today.
