The Alzheimer’s Association reports that approximately 15 million people in the United States care for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Most family caregivers likely agree the task is quite challenging, and there are several factors they must consider to ensure they’re providing effective care.
Become Educated
Gain information about care techniques as well as the type of dementia your loved one has been diagnosed with. Knowing how dementia affects behaviors prevents you from taking it personally when your loved one acts out unusually or displays unpleasant behaviors. By staying informed, you can have a better idea of what you might expect while also learning how to manage different situations.
The more you learn about dementia, the more you can keep your loved one safe. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide home care Green Valley AZ, families can turn to Embrace In-Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
Take a Proper Approach
Addressing seniors with dementia from behind can frighten them. They may react by simply appearing startled, or they may become agitated and angry. When you want to have a conversation or convey a request, approach your loved one slowly from the front. Call your parent by name, and speak softly and calmly.
All family caregivers want to ensure a high quality of life for their elderly relatives. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust senior care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
Simplify Conversations
Depending on the stage of dementia, your loved one may not be able to process long sentences. Keep the conversation simple. Ask questions that might be answered with a “yes” or “no.” Wait for your loved one to respond, and repeat the question if necessary. If your loved one has difficulty finding the words to answer, offer responses that might be appropriate to the situation. This way, your parent can simply answer “yes” or “no.”
Analyze Behaviors
If your loved one becomes agitated, nervous, or angry, determine the underlying cause. For instance, your loved one might be in pain or need to use the bathroom, or he or she might be hungry or thirsty or feel confused by an environment that’s too noisy. At night, when seniors with dementia tend to wander, they’re often trying to fulfill a need. Take the time to calmly learn the reason behind wandering behaviors.
Demonstrate Compassion
Seniors with dementia often repeat words and phrases constantly. Your loved one may have difficulty understanding what you’re trying to convey, and there may be times when his or her behavior seems irrational. Whatever the situation, you need to understand that your loved one cannot control his or her thought processes or feelings at the moment. They’re all part of the disease process that prevents the brain from receiving and interpreting information. Be patient. Show compassion and understanding, and offer loving encouragement and support.
Have a Plan in Place
Dementia often progresses to the point where care is needed 24 hours a day. Caregivers and family members must have a plan in place for when that day comes. Perhaps other family members will assist at certain times during the day or night. Families might also consider working with a respite caregiver. Respite care services employ professional staff who have the training and experience needed to provide proper care for with seniors with dementia.
Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Embrace In-Home Care is here to help. We are a leading provider of dementia care Green Valley families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care. Reach out to one of our qualified Care Managers today at (520) 625-2050 to schedule a complimentary consultation.