Caring for someone with dementia is one of the most meaningful things a person can do. It is also one of the most demanding. Here are some practical tips from the Alzheimer’s Association to help you along the way:
Daily Routines
- Try to keep a routine, such as bathing, dressing, and eating at the same time each day.
- Help the person write down to-do lists, appointments, and events in a notebook or calendar.
- Plan activities that the person enjoys and try to do them at the same time each day.
- Consider a system or reminders for helping those who must take medications regularly.
Communication and Behavior Changes
- Reassure the person. Speak calmly. Listen to his or her concerns and frustrations.
- Allow the person to keep as much control in his or her life as possible.
- Build quiet times into the day, along with activities.
- Keep well-loved objects and photographs around the house to help the person feel more secure.
- If you are asked the same questions repeatedly, try distracting the person with an activity.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
- Consider different activities the person likes to do to stay active. Match the activity to what the person can do.
- Help get an activity started or join in to make the activity more fun. People with dementia may lack interest or initiative and can have trouble starting activities.
- Add music to exercises or activities if it helps motivate the person. Dance to the music if possible.
- Be realistic about how much activity can be done at one time. Several short “mini-workouts” may be best.
Safety Tips
- If you have stairs, make sure there is at least one handrail. Put carpet or safety grip strips on stairs or mark the edges of steps with brightly colored tape so they are more visible.
- Insert safety plugs into unused electrical outlets and consider safety latches on cabinet doors. Doorknob covers may be helpful.
- Clear away unused items and remove small rugs, electrical cords, and other items the person may trip over.
- Remove curtains and rugs with busy patterns that may confuse the person.
- Make a plan early about when to stop driving. Include your PCP.
- Lock up guns and other weapons.
Scam Protection
- Solidify good security practices. Leave notes not to give out social security or bank information.
- Apply blocking tools to phones and computers.
- Find someone to monitor financial activity.
- Establish stronger financial safeguards. Set up alerts with the bank or credit card company.
Taking Care of Yourself
- Ask for help when you need it. This could mean asking family members and friends to help or reaching out to LifePath for additional care needs.
- Eat nutritious foods and get exercise as often as you can.
- Join a caregiver support group. Meeting other caregivers will give you a chance to share stories and ideas and can help keep you from feeling isolated.
- Take breaks every day. Try making a cup of tea or calling a friend.
- Spend time with friends and keep up with hobbies.
