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Tips for Everyday Care for People With Dementia in Miami-Dade
Posted by Scott Cantin in caregiving tips, Dementia | 0 comments

If you’re looking after someone with dementia, your daily tasks will likely increase as the disease progresses. At some point, a person with dementia will need help bathing, brushing their teeth, combing their hair, and getting dressed. Since these are private activities, it’s critical to have a reliable caregiver to help. At Advancare, our professional, compassionate, and efficient caregivers can provide the care your loved one with dementia needs.
We offer senior home care services such as light housekeeping, dementia care, bathing and grooming, assistance with bill paying, palliative care, caring companionship, meal planning and preparation, running errands, incidental transportation, and many more. If you’re currently taking care of a senior with dementia, here are a few tips to help you provide better care.
Reduce Frustrations
People with dementia may change as the disease progresses. Part of this change is getting aggressive or agitated over people and things. Sometimes the senior may find some tasks challenging, such as bathing or dressing up, and therefore, they may resist doing these activities which can be frustrating. To reduce frustrations, establish a routine that prepares them for such tasks.
Determine what activities are perfect when they are fresh and alert. Be flexible, particularly on difficult days. It’s also prudent to take your time and anticipate that some tasks will take longer to accomplish, such as eating. Provide choices but not too many, and use simple instructions. You also need to limit daytime napping to promote quality sleep at night.
Be Flexible
As the disease progresses, a person with dementia will become more dependent. To reduce frustration, be flexible and adapt to a routine that works for you. For instance, if the person wants to wear the same shoes every day, get several pairs of identical shoes. If bathing is met with resistance, do it less often. Ask about the activities they would like to participate in and plan them. If they enjoy doing them, plan to do them every day, especially if they are healthy, such as taking a walk.
Create a Safe Environment
Dementia impairs memory and judgment problem-solving skills, increasing a person’s risk of injury. Ensure the house has adequate lighting, including the corridors, to promote safety. Avoid placing rugs, boxes, extension cords, and other items that could contribute to falls. Instead, install grab bars or handrails to increase support in critical areas. Always check the temperature of the food and drinks before serving, as the senior may not detect hot or cold items, which could lead to burns.
Focus on Individualized Care
When caring for a person with dementia, it’s always prudent to watch them and know their personality. Dementia manifests differently in different people. That means patients will likely have different symptoms. Knowing what the person likes and what they don’t like helps improve your relationship with them. It also reduces agitation, which makes your work easier. Learn to apply flexibility whenever needed and know how to read mood changes and respond appropriately. With some little help and support from family and friends, you can overcome the challenges and frustrations as they come.
Don’t forget to look after yourself. Remember, you need to be healthy to be able to care for your loved one. If you feel you need help caring for your senior loved one with dementia, our caregivers are here to help. Contact us today for a consultation.
Tags: Everyday Care for People With Dementia