Five Fundamentals For Dementia Carers

Caring for someone with dementia can be daunting, perhaps even challenging, however it’s not as one would expect. The crucial aspect to caring someone with dementia is the right attitude and by educating yourself about dementia.

By having the right attitude and knowledge you will be able to effectively take care of someone with dementia and maintain an element of control in an otherwise confusing situation. Below are five fundamentals when taking care of someone with dementia.

1. Understanding dementia

Most would associate dementia with memory loss, as after all it is a classic dementia symptom. However some types of dementia can manifest as personality changes instead of memory loss; depending on the affected areas of the brain symptoms could vary from one person to the nest even if memory loss is the apparent symptom.

2. Be realistic

Those that have experienced taking care of dementia affected patients will tell you that there are good and bad days. It’s just part of the process and the important thing is to make sure that the person is safe, comfortable and as happy as possible. Don’t force them to do something that they don’t want to do or be impatient when they refuse to do something that they normally do without any problems.

3. Actively empathize

Ask one question at a time; those with yes or no answers are the best. Dementia patients often don’t remember short-term memories, but can recall memories 40 years in the past. They are prone to being confused about where they are, or even when they are, and become disoriented. Be patient with them and try to encourage remembering the good old days.

4. Accept support

It’s not possible to take care of someone alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help as there are many support groups that would allow you a chance to network with people who are doing the same thing as you and perhaps give you advice on a particular situation.

5. Plan for the future

The only thing that will never change is the dementia. You will need to prepare for a time when the patient may need professional memory care in a residential setting, this involves not only the financial aspect of it but also identifying the most appropriate care options in your area.

Professional health workers will need to continually reassess the care needs and health status of the clients suffering from dementia.