Dementia Support 101: What Do You Need to Know?

Does your elderly loved one have dementia? If so, you will need to find ways to support them and care for them. While this disease can be difficult on everyone, including the family caregivers, you still must try to focus on the needs of your elderly loved one. You should take care of yourself and joining a support group to help yourself cope, as well. In regard to your elderly loved one, keep reading for tips on how to help.

Distraction

Home Care Palm Beach County, FL: Dementia Support

One of the things that might help your elderly loved one is a distraction. People who have dementia often lose their temper. They get angry and frustrated easily. If this happens, you or the home care provider should try changing the subject. You can do this in many ways. You can talk about the weather, offer a snack, or turn on the television. Sometimes distraction might be enough to help your elderly loved one calm down.

No Logic

It is going to be even more frustrating if you try to find the logic in what your elderly loved one is doing. Their disease isn’t logical. In fact, it doesn’t make much sense at all. One moment your elderly loved one might be fine. The next moment they might be very angry. If you can come to the realization that things they do or say are illogical, you can cope with what they are doing much better.

Getting Night Lights

Many people who have dementia get scared in the dark. If they start seeing shadows, they might think that someone is breaking into their house. It might be helpful if you put night lights in their house. You should put these in the main areas such as the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and walkways. The night lights can help to prevent falls, too.

Door Coverings

It is important for all family caregivers and home care providers to be prepared for wandering. Many people with dementia will wander. This often happens in the evenings or at night time. There are different types of door coverings you can put on your elderly loved one’s doors. These can lock them in or alert you or the home care provider if your loved one tries to leave.

Conclusion

These are some of the dementia support tips that you might need to care for your elderly loved one. Don’t be afraid to talk to your loved one’s doctor or home care providers if you need more advice.

If you or an aging loved-one is considering Home Care in Palm Beach County, FL please contact the caring staff at Elite Senior Home Care today. (561) 570-6613

Sources

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers/caregiving