How To Handle a Parent With Dementia
Caring for a father or mother with dementia has many challenges for families and caregivers alike. You want the best for your loved one, but don’t know how to navigate the demands and responsibilities of a caregiver.
Millions of families go through similar situations and are able to navigate these difficult times, cherishing memories with their parents along the way. Our team at Living Life at Home Nurse Registry is here with advice and tips on how to cope with a parent with dementia.
1. Create a Comfortable and Inviting Environment
Creating a welcoming and supportive home environment that accommodates your loved one’s condition is a great first step in caregiving. For home safety, install handrails on all stairs, use safety plugs on unused electrical outlets, and keep floors and walkways clear of clutter.
Throughout their home, place physical reminders and well-loved objects or photographs to create a sense of comfort. When they’re struggling to remember something or someone, remind your loved one, but avoid using language such as “don’t you remember?”
2. Establish Effective Communication Methods
Over time, dementia diminishes a person’s ability to communicate, including language processing and production. Instead of going through normal pass-by conversations as if nothing has changed, recognize these differences and promote one-on-one conversations with your loved one.
Whenever you’re talking to your parent, see that there are no distractions, such as TVs and appliances running nearby. Speak directly to your loved one face-to-face rather than having a third party act as a messenger. Practice patience and give your parent time to respond and express their thoughts. If your parent openly expresses interest in different forms of communication, such as emails or text messaging, don’t be afraid to try them out.
3. Keep a Routine
Another great way to keep a happy life at home for your parent is to keep a daily routine. A familiar routine can help keep the mind active even in the face of difficulty. Try to have your loved one wake up, dress, bathe, and eat at the same time each day. Set reminders to help with various tasks, such as taking medications and participating in activities.
4. Stay Active
Another way to keep the mind in the best shape possible is to stay active. Consider activities to do with your loved one, such as household chores, cooking, or gardening, to spend quality time together. We also recommend creating exercise routines for your parent to follow at set times throughout the week.
5. Address Changes in Behavior
Dementia has different effects on people’s communication, ranging from trouble in remembering things to affecting language abilities. When you are a caregiver, consider these communication changes and address them while including your loved one. Allow us to share some advice on how to handle these differences in communication while including your parent:
- Reassure the person
- Speak calmly
- Show you understand why the person is upset
- Respect the person’s personal space
- Build quiet times and activities into the day
- Encourage two-way conversations
6. Take Care of Yourself
The responsibilities of a caregiver can have different effects on you that can lead to stress and anxiety. You’re on the clock 24/7 and handle a variety of tasks to help your parent deal with their condition. The best way to preserve you and your loved one’s well-being is to make time to take care of yourself.
First, take note of any signs of burnout as soon as they appear. These signs can include changes in appetite, frequent negative emotions, and trouble sleeping. Ways to prevent burnout include taking care of your physical health, carving out time for yourself, and spending quality time with your friends and other loved ones. Taking time for yourself will only help you be better equipped to take care of others.
7. Plan for the Future
Taking care of a parent with dementia doesn’t have to be a solo job. There’s no shame in asking for help or advice on how to take care of your parent. A good first step is to reach out to other family members, friends, and neighbors to take care of your loved one. Another valid option is to arrange in-home care services to help keep independence and comfort.
Inform your parent of your plans to get an in-home care professional ahead of time. If another caregiver appears one day without warning, it can lead to difficult situations. Choose a good time and remain calm as you explain the need for an in-home caretaker and answer any questions they may have.
Get In-Home Support With Living Life at Home
If your parent has dementia and needs professional and personalized care, turn to Living Life at Home Nurse Registry. The qualified nurses and caregivers that Living Life at Home refers provide proper care while allowing your loved one to maintain a quality and enjoyable home life. Contact us online today and learn how our professional care providers can get the support your loved one needs.