Overcoming Dementia Challenges: Simple Tips for Caregivers

Understanding Dementia Challenges

If you’re caring for someone who has dementia, you know that every day brings unique, unpredictable challenges.

“Many of us at the HomeCare Advocacy Network have personal experience with dementia, so we understand many of the challenges that come with the disease. The unpredictable behaviors can try the patience of even the most devoted family members and friends,” Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations manager at the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “However, with the right approach and support, caring for someone who has dementia can also be very rewarding.”

Simple Tips to Help Family Caregivers

Goetz said these simple tips can help caregivers make the most of the good days and make it through the challenging ones.

• Try to keep a routine, such as bathing, dressing and eating at the same time each day.
• Help your loved one write down to-do lists, appointments and events in a notebook or calendar. 
• Plan activities that your loved one enjoys and try to do them at the same time each day.
• Create a system of reminders to help those who must take medications regularly.
• When dressing or bathing, allow your loved one to do as much as possible.
• Buy loose-fitting, comfortable, easy-to-use clothing, such as clothes with elastic waistbands, fabric fasteners or large zipper pulls instead of shoelaces, buttons or buckles.
• Use a sturdy shower chair to support support your loved one if he/she is unsteady on his/her feet.
• Be gentle and respectful. Tell your loved one what you are going to do step-by-step while you help him/her bathe or get dressed.
• Serve meals in a consistent, familiar place and give your loved one plenty of time to eat.
• Allow your loved one to keep as much control in his/her life as possible.
• Respect your loved one’s personal space.
• Build quiet time into every day.
• Keep well-loved objects and photos around the house to help your loved one feel safe and secure.
• Remind your loved one who you are if he/she doesn’t remember. Don’t say – “don’t you remember?”
• Encourage two-way conversations for as long as possible.

Professional Care for Alzheimer’s Patients

“At HCAN, we are committed to helping families navigate their dementia journey,” Goetz said.  “When more care is required, our professional caregivers can help. They’re trained to care for people who have Alzheimer’s – giving families much needed respite from day-to-day caregiving responsibilities.”

Visit HCANthrive.com for Dementia Care Services

To learn more about our dementia care services, please visit our website or call your local HCAN-supported office. Our team is happy to assist you and provide you with the best care for your loved ones with dementia.