Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging; it’s as difficult to wrap your mind around quantum physics as it is to understand dementia. Dementia is a tough subject to think about, but with a little knowledge and understanding of the disease, you can feel well informed and effective in your role as a caregiver for the person you love, helping that person to feel accepted and content.
How can you be a Better Dementia Caregiver?
If you’re a dementia caregiver, you know that it can be a difficult, emotionally taxing role. But there are ways to make it easier on yourself and your loved one. Here’re a few tips on how you can be a better dementia caregiver:
Don’t rush to make decisions or make assumptions about what your loved one wants. Ask them questions and let them answer as best as they can.
Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by the amount of care required by someone with dementia. Take breaks when you need them—even if that means just stepping out of the room for a minute or two.
Don’t get frustrated if they don’t follow your instructions—try again later when they’re feeling more alert and able to follow instructions better.
Be flexible. Don’t try to force your loved one into the same routine they had before they were diagnosed with dementia. They may not be able to do things the way that they used to, or may not remember how to do them at all. Instead, try finding new activities for them to participate in—even if those activities are just something as simple as watching television or reading a book together.
Make sure your loved one gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation every day. This can help reduce the effects of dementia on their brain function and behavior, which will make it easier for both of you in the long run!
Seek Professional Help If Required:
To ensure the best possible care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, seek out the help of Companion Care Services in New Jersey with CareBridge Home Care.
When you work with a senior companion care provider like CareBridge Home Health Care, you can rest assured that your loved one will be taken care of properly—and that they’ll know that they are loved and valued. Their compassionate caregivers can help your loved one with things like grocery shopping, house cleaning, and laundry—and they can also assist with medication management, transportation to medical appointments, and much more. Schedule your appointment today!