Caring for patients with Alzheimer’s or other dementia related illnesses can be challenging as is and even harder as the illness progresses. Here are steps caregivers can take to make the process a little easier by preventing frustration and promoting flexibility and individualized care.
- Stick to a routine: Keeping a routine such as bathing, dressing, and eating at the same time each day provides consistency for the patient or loved one.
- Be patient and flexible: Understand that some activities and tasks may take longer than usual. Ensure to schedule more time for them and allow time for breaks.
- Set a positive mood for interaction: Speaking to your patient or loved one in a pleasant and respectful manner, along with using appropriate facial expressions and tone of voice can show them your affection and help convey the message you want to get across to them.
- Be gentle and respectful: Let your patient or loved one know exactly what is happening and what you are doing step by step. This can allow them to be more aware and prepared for what is to come.
- Involve the person: Give your patient or loved one the opportunity to do as much as possible without your assistance. This can allow them to have independence while you support them by giving them the ability to take care of themselves.
- Provide choices: Ask simple, answerable questions and avoid open-ended questions. Additionally, give them choices such as options for clothes they can wear or activities they want to do. Again, this can allow them to feel that they have control over certain aspects of their life while still being cared for.
- Focus on individualized care: Each person with dementia can experience different symptoms and progression. Therefore, it is important to understand what each patient or loved one needs to give them the utmost of care they deserve!
These are just a few of many steps caregivers can take to alleviate the stress and hardships that may come when caring for someone with dementia. With patience and a good attitude, you can show that you care for them and help make life for them and yourself a little easier.