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Care Guide for Dementia Patients – Memory Loss Care Solutions

   John Doe      August 18th, 2021

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People with dementia often develop other related diseases with a progressive biological brain disorder making it increasingly difficult to remember things, think clearly, communicate with others, and take care of themselves. Additionally, dementia can lead to mood swings and even change a person’s personality and behavior. Caring for a loved one with dementia presents many challenges for families and caregivers.

Ensure that they do not hurt themselves when they wander 

For anyone who has been diagnosed with dementia, they must be dealt with patience. People with dementia seem seemingly aimless for various reasons, such as boredom, drug side effects, or looking for “something” or someone. A barrier such as a curtain or a colored flag that masks the door. The “stop” or “do not enter” sign can also help. Put a black block on the porch or paint a black space; to a person with dementia, it may seem like an impassable hole. Add “child-friendly” plastic covers to the handlebar. Tell your neighbors about your relative’s trip and make sure they have your phone number. Put away basic things like their coat, bag, or glasses. Some individuals don’t go out without certain items.

Accommodate and make amends for them

Try non-verbal reassurance such as a gentle touch or a hug. Respond to the emotions behind the accusation and then calm the person down. You can try saying, “I see it scares you; stay with me; I will not let anything happen to you.” If a confused person suspects that their money is ‘missing,’ ask them to keep small amounts in their pocket or purse for easy inspection. Seeing a loved one suddenly becomes suspicious, jealous, or accusatory is disturbing. Remember that who they are is very real to them; it’s best not to argue or disagree.

Making changes to their lifestyle

Organize their afternoon and evening hours to be peaceful and serene; however, a structured and quiet activity is important. Maybe they can take a walk outside, play a simple card game, or listen to relaxing music together. Increase daily activities, especially exercise. Refuse inactivity and napping during the day. Watch out for diet culprits like sugar, caffeine, and some types of junk food. Eliminate or limit these types of foods and drinks at the start of the day. Plan smaller meals throughout the day, including light meals like half a sandwich before bed.

You may have to be more cautious with them, given the fact that with the rise of COVID-19 cases, there may not be a lot of outdoor activities that have remained accessible. 

Keep the doctor in the loop

We cannot stress this enough. 

When you see changes in their behavior or even when they are completely fine, weekly follow-ups with the doctor should do. Behavioral problems can have an underlying health reason: You may experience pain or experience side effects from medications. In some cases, such as hallucinations or incontinence, certain medications or treatments may help solve the problem. Talk to your doctor first.

Do not only listen with your ears but your heart 

Be patient by waiting for your loved one to respond. If they are struggling with an answer to a question, it’s okay to suggest words. Watch for non-verbal cues and body language and respond accordingly. Always try to listen to the meaning and feelings behind the words. This way, you can also encourage your loved one to do what she can, gently remind her of the steps she tends to forget, and help with the steps she can no longer handle on her own.

Monitor if they can sleep well

Turning on the light before sunset and pulling the curtains at sunset minimizes shadows and can help reduce clutter. At a minimum, put off the night light in your personal room, hallway, and bathroom. As a last resort, consider talking to your doctor about medications to help an upset person relax and sleep. Remember that sleeping pills and sedatives can solve one problem and create another, such as sleeping at night, but the next day creates more confusion.

A recommendation: It is important that you, the caregiver, get enough sleep. If your loved one’s nighttime activity doesn’t get you to sleep, consider asking a friend or relative or hiring someone to step in so you can sleep well. Cats can also help during the day.

What habits or ways should you adopt to make them feel better?

1. Answer them with love and reassurance. People with dementia often feel perplexed, anxious, and unsure of themselves. 
2. Avoid convincing them that they are wrong. Focus on the feelings they present (real) and respond with verbal and physical expressions of comfort, support, and reassurance. 
3. Sometimes holding hands, touching, hugging, and praising make you react when all else fails.
4. Use humor whenever possible. People with dementia retain their social skills and usually love to laugh with you.
5. Divide the activities into a series of steps. You can encourage your loved ones to do what they can do, gently remind them of the steps they tend to forget, and help them with the steps they can no longer do. As a result, many activities are much more manageable.
6. Remembering the past is often a calming and affirmative activity. Many people with dementia may not remember what happened 45 minutes ago, but they can clearly remember their lives 45 years ago.

Bottom line 

Despite these many potential challenges, it is important to realize that this behavior is often a compensatory tactic for people with impaired brain function. There is no doubt that dealing with this behavior can be particularly challenging. It is important that you, the caregiver, get enough sleep. If your loved one’s nighttime activity doesn’t get you to sleep, consider asking a friend or relative or hiring someone to step in so you can sleep well. Cats can also help during the day.