For most people, dementia care at home can be challenging to manage alone. And today, there are many different approaches to dealing with the condition and its symptoms. To help your relative or loved one with dementia, it’s important that you try to understand what they’re going through – not just in terms of their diagnosis but also as a person. The more insight you have into their everyday life and personality traits, the better equipped you’ll be to provide effective care at home. Working with a professional care worker can also be beneficial, as they offer additional support and advice.
Before it comes to that, however, understanding what your loved one needs on a day-to-day basis is incredibly important. Here are some of the most important aspects you need to cover as part of the dementia care you provide.
Providing assistance with daily tasks
One of the most important things that caregivers can do for people with dementia is to help them with their daily tasks. This can include anything from helping them bathe and get dressed to cooking meals and doing laundry.
Providing companionship and support
Providing companionship and support
Another important aspect of caregiving is providing companionship and support. This can involve engaging in conversations, playing games or doing other activities together. It can also simply involve being there for the person with dementia and offering a comforting presence.
Ensuring respite for carers
Families and loved ones who are providing care for someone with dementia often need respite, or a break from caregiving to help them to avoid burnout and maintain their own physical and mental health. There are a variety of respite options available, including in-home care, adult daycare and overnight stays in a nursing home or assisted living facility.
Interacting with the wider community
People with dementia often benefit from interacting with the wider community, whether it’s through social activities, support groups or volunteering. This can help to combat isolation and loneliness, and can also provide a sense of purpose.
Taking medication
Anyone who’s affected by this condition may need help to take their medication, as they may forget to take it or take the wrong dose. In these scenarios, it’s important to ensure that they receive the correct medication and take it as prescribed.
Professional care workers can help with this, and can also offer other support such as helping to monitor the person’s condition and keeping track of their medical appointments.
Managing continence
Many people with dementia experience problems with continence, which can be both distressing and embarrassing. There are a number of products available to help manage this, such as incontinence pads and underwear. Professional care workers can also offer support and advice on how to deal with this issue, including taking over managing this aspect of your loved one’s daily routine to minimise their discomfort.
Engaging in meaningful activities
One of the best ways to combat the symptoms of dementia is to engage in activities that are meaningful to the person affected, which can include anything from looking at photo albums and listening to music to gardening and cooking. Doing activities together can also be beneficial, as it provides an opportunity for social interaction and bonding.
If you’re providing dementia care at home, make sure that you’re making time for these activities as it can also help them remember important memories. If you’re working with a professional, on the other hand, let them know which activities your loved one prefers.
Get professional support to manage dementia at home more effectively
Dementia is a serious condition, but it doesn’t have to be insurmountable. With the right support and understanding, people with dementia can continue living at home for as long as possible.
As we’ve seen, there are a variety of ways in which you can provide this support—whether you are caring for a loved one or yourself. If you want to work with a team of care workers who are specifically trained to help people manage dementia, our team is here to help. Take a look at our website or give us a call at myCare today to get an idea of how we can help make yours and your loved ones’ lives easier.
