We’ve developed a collection of guides that address common questions about caring for a person with dementia. These guides will help you understand the causes for many moods and behaviors and explain current best practices for managing them.
- Accusations—It’s common for people with dementia to lose things and subsequently blame or make accusations of those around them. (Русский)
- Bathing—Bathing a person with dementia, who may not want to bathe or may not want to accept help in doing so, can be a challenging task. (Русский)
- Behavior Is Communication—Dementia changes the way we communicate. There are certain behaviors that represent underlying needs and emotions. Responding to the emotion behind the presenting behavior will help you understand and communicate more effectively.
- Addressing Difficult Questions—Ever wondered whether or not to be honest when the truth is painful? We explain the emotion behind difficult questions like “Where’s my mother?” and teach you how to respond. (Русский)
- Asking an Older Adult to Stop Driving—It’s not easy to talk to an older adult about taking the keys away. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate this potentially complex and emotional conversation.
- Gaining Cooperation—A person who has dementia may refuse to do what you are asking of them—even when resisting could jeopardize their safety or wellbeing. Learn to adapt your approach, reduce stress and frustration, and gain cooperation. (Русский)
- “I Don’t Need Any Help!”—People with dementia often truly believe that they don’t need any help. Here are some strategies for implementing care and support when you are met with resistance. (Русский)
- “I Want To Go Home”—One of the most common requests made by people with dementia is to go home. (Русский)
- Incontinence—Most people with dementia have limited insight to the reality of the care they require. We provide tips on how to maintain good hygiene and minimize stress. (Русский)
- Meal Time—Loss of interest in food is common for those with dementia, and this can be stressful for families and caregivers. Tips to help provide support related to appetite. (Русский)
- Medication Management—Memory loss can affect the ability to manage medications, which can put a person’s safety and independence at risk. Tips to offer assistance with medication management. (Русский)
- Moving to a Memory Care Community—There comes a time when a person with dementia is no longer safe to live independently. If you have determined that the best decision for your loved one is to move into a memory care community, use these strategies to help moving day go as smoothly as possible. (Русский)
- Repetition—It is common for people with memory loss to repeat questions and stories throughout the day. Tips to help you support someone who says the same thing over and over, and help you cope with the situation. (Русский)
- Dealing with Sexual Disinhibition—Dementia is a disease and the brain is physically changing. These changes can cause a person to act differently. The most effective way to deal with sexual disinhibition is to make observations about the behavior, identify possible triggers, and develop a strategy in response. Simple do’s and don’ts when dealing with sexual disinhibition in a person with dementia (Русский)
- Supporting Healthy Sleep Patterns— Irregular sleep patterns are common for people with dementia. Use these practical tips to support healthy sleep hygiene for the person you care for and for yourself. (Русский)
- Social Isolation—A dementia diagnosis does not mean an end to socialization. In fact, socialization is needed more than ever. Studies show that loneliness and isolation contribute to the progression of dementia. You can help make social arrangements on behalf of your loved one in order to prevent social isolation. (Русский)
Seniors At Home’s Center for Dementia Care provides specialized support for people experiencing Alzheimer’s or dementia, as well as practical and emotional support for their families. Our person-centered approach to dementia care centers on the strengths and abilities of every individual and prioritizes activity and autonomy.
Contact us to discuss how we can support you or a loved one. Call us at 415-449-3700 or contact us online.