Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be difficult.
Without the right help and experience, it’s like running a marathon you never trained for.
It’s an unpredictable journey, and it will force you to adapt and be resourceful.
The outcome relies on your ability to adapt and apply proven strategies.
I’m going to share 6 proven tips you can use to manage a loved one suffering from ALZ or Dementia.
Let’s get started!
1. Embrace Love Over Logic
When dealing with a loved one with dementia, logic takes a back seat.
It’s not about reasoning; it’s about responding with love and presence.
For example, if your mom tries to brush her hair with a spoon, don’t correct her. Hand her a brush and offer a hug.
It’s about creating moments of peace and tranquility in a world that no longer makes sense to them.
2. Maintain a Routine
A consistent schedule can be a beacon of stability in the confusing world for them.
Align activities with their mood and behavior patterns.
If evenings are tough, create a calming environment. If mornings are clearer, schedule appointments and bathing then.
While they may not remember the routine, it won’t be a surprise, which reduces potential stress for both you and them.
So by trying creating everyday activities like eating meals, going for walks, or bedtime, it will help them know what to expect, even if they can’t remember exactly what’s happening.
The routines you set up will make them feel more secure and comfortable.
Keeping a regular schedule is one part of helping.
But It’s also important to understand the disease to see why these routines matter so much.
3. Understanding the Disease
Dementia isn’t just memory loss.
It’s a complete disruption of thought, feeling, and sensation processing.
What seems like a kind gesture to you might be perceived as a threat.
Remember, it’s a disease causing chaos and confusion in their world.
Your empathy and understanding are crucial.
When helping someone with dementia, keep in mind that each person is different.
What may help one person might not help another.
So we have to try our best to see how they view the world.
If we can learn how to be relaxed and patient with them, life is much easier for both sides.
4. Foster Your Calm and Patience
Your emotional state influences your loved one.
Staying calm and patient isn’t beneficial, it’s essential.
Practice deep breathing. Count to ten, and maintain a sense of humor.
This approach not only helps you but also creates a peaceful environment for your loved one.
5. Simplify Their World
Embrace minimalism in caregiving.
Reduce the mess, make sure the walkways are open, and keep used items at reach.
Ask simple questions and avoid loud noises.
A simplified environment reduces confusion and anxiety.
6. Alter Their Focus
Use their tendency to live in the ‘now’ to your advantage.
During tough times, redirect their attention with a familiar song or easy question.
This technique alleviates stress and works in difficult situations.
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia is a journey of the heart, fought with intelligence but won with love and patience.
Each case is unique, but these strategies can help manage the day-to-day challenges.
You will spare yourself a lot of pain and frustration if you get the hang of these 6 tips.
It’ll be a walk in the park!
Wanna know something even crazier?
These 6 fail-proof tips are 6 of many of the strategies on a day to day basis.
Always remember, every case is a different case…
…But in every case, the battle will be fought with brains, but won with a heart!
You’re not alone in this journey.
You can reach out for support.
We are here for you.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Home Care in Kendall, FL, please contact the caring staff at Angel Home Care Services today. Call (305) 220-4544
A Trusted Home Care Agency in the Kendall, West Kendall, Kendall West, South Miami, West Miami, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Doral, Cutler Bay, Sweetwater, Florida, and surrounding areas.
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