It can be difficult and emotional learning that your loved one has dementia. Mood swings, a changing personality, and new behaviors can make communication challenging. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 15 million people in the United States are currently caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia, and sadly, more and more cases are being reported annually. You want the best for your loved one, and educating yourself on dementia can help you better adapt to their changing needs. Share on X
When Your Loved One Has Dementia
Caring for a loved one suffering symptoms of dementia can pose many challenges, but also be rewarding, too. Make sure to follow these helpful tips so you can successfully (and healthily) adjust to your new schedule and journey.Â
Educate Yourself
First and foremost, it is important to educate yourself on dementia, including symptoms and ways to cope. Learning about the disease and what to expect will help you ready yourself and allow you to plan for the future. Educating yourself will give you an understanding of risk factors and how to better deal with them when they arise.
Take Care of Yourself
Everyone feels better when they take care of themselves properly, and that includes caregivers and people dealing with difficult times. Schedule time to exercise, even if it just going for a walk around the neighborhood. Eat healthy, balanced meals, and make sure to get plenty of sleep. Also, don’t forget to spend time with people outside of the situation. SOcializing can help you release stress and offer a way for you to get more support.
Practice Patience
When dealing with dementia patients, one of the most important things you can do is stay patient. People with dementia tend to have memory loss, as well as behavioral issues, and losing patience, or arguing with your loved one will not help. Make sure to set realistic expectations and learn to expect the unexpected.
Keep Communication Open
Communication is key when looking after your loved one living with dementia. Make sure to stay connected to their doctors and other caregivers, and also your senior suffering from dementia. You might want to seek out a support group so you can meet others who are dealing with similar experiences.
Take Help From Others
You don’t have to do everything on your own. Take help from others when it is offered and don’t be afraid to ask for help, either. We all need help sometimes and especially when dealing with the changes in behavior and mental capacity associated with dementia. Without help, you won’t be able to properly care for yourself and then, your loved one may suffer.
Contact A Memory Care Home
There may come a time when your loved one’s symptoms become too much to handle on your own. It happens. As this disease progresses, dementia patients can lose their ability to communicate, can become violent, or exhibit other troubling behaviors. Consider placing them in a loving and nurturing memory care home if it is needed. These smaller facilities can give your family member constant care while providing you with plenty of time to visit with them.
Dementia Care for Your Loved One
Dementia is a disease that can’t be overlooked. By educating yourself, taking outside help when needed, and making sure you stay healthy and communicate with those around you, you can find reward for helping out your senior coping with dementia.
To learn more about how to live well while caring for a loved one with dementia, Contact Us.