Greetings once again from your Hiram-area assisted living and Hiram memory care community here at Manor Lake. Dementia changes lives and introduces new challenges seemingly on a daily basis. Dementia changes the way a person thinks and feels, and it changes the way a person makes even the smallest decision. Dementia has a major impact on how one lives, and can make many mundane activities surprisingly difficult. The same can be true for caregivers. If you are a caregiver for someone with dementia, just take it one day at a time.

Here are a few tips to make those daily tasks easier:

Scheduling

Sometimes a sensible schedule helps to minimize anxiety for a person with dementia. A schedule helps most people feel comfortable because there are certain things they can count on at certain times. You don’t have to schedule every little thing but learn what specific daily tasks are most important to schedule and try to do those tasks with your loved one at a time that works for them as well as for you. This could include bathing and other grooming activities as well as eating or going for walks.

Speak Clearly and Listen

A person with dementia may not be able to communicate with you the way they used to, but when you are spending time with your loved one, pay attention, offer them support, and patiently explain what you are doing and why. It will help eliminate anxiety for them and will also help you become a better caregiver.

Don’t Over-Rely on Television

Many caregivers make the mistake of depending too much on television or other distractions but people with dementia may benefit more from focusing their attention on you and the daily tasks you are doing together. Similarly, it might help to remove clutter from your house to make it a safer place for your loved one and to reduce the possibility of their getting anxious.

Seek Help

You have access to quality senior care communities like us here at Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care. Send questions into us anytime!