Supporting people with dementia involves a compassionate and patient-centered approach. Here are some key strategies which Arise Teen and Adult Support Services will use to support:
Communication:
Use clear, simple language and maintain eye contact. Speak slowly and give the person time to process and respond. Non-verbal cues, like gestures and facial expressions, can also help.
Environment:
Create a safe and comfortable environment. Reduce noise and clutter to minimize confusion and anxiety. Familiar objects and photos can provide comfort and stimulate memories.
Routine: Establish a consistent daily routine to help the person feel secure and oriented. Predictability can reduce stress and improve cooperation.
Activities:
Engage in activities that match their interests and abilities. Simple tasks, like folding laundry or gardening, can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Reminiscence activities, like looking through old photos, can also be beneficial.
Validation and Reassurance:
Acknowledge their feelings and provide reassurance. Avoid arguing or correcting them, as this can lead to frustration and agitation.
Physical Health:
Encourage regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. These can help maintain overall health and well-being.
Support for Caregivers:
Provide education and support for caregivers to help them cope with the challenges of caregiving. Respite care and support groups can be valuable resources.
Tailoring these strategies to the individual’s needs and preferences is crucial for providing effective support.
Dementia Care
We always support individuals in their home with the following amongst many other requirements set out in their care plan:
Use clear, simple language and maintain eye contact. Speak slowly and give the person time to process and respond. Non-verbal cues, like gestures and facial expressions, can also help.
Create a safe and comfortable environment. Reduce noise and clutter to minimize confusion and anxiety. Familiar objects and photos can provide comfort and stimulate memories.
Engage in activities that match their interests and abilities. Simple tasks, like folding laundry or gardening, can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Reminiscence activities, like looking through old photos, can also be beneficial.
Acknowledge their feelings and provide reassurance. Avoid arguing or correcting them, as this can lead to frustration and agitation.
Encourage regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. These can help maintain overall health and well-being.
Provide education and support for caregivers to help them cope with the challenges of caregiving. Respite care and support groups can be valuable resources.
Dementia Care
We always support individuals in their home with the following amongst many other requirements set out in their care plan:
- Personal care – bathing, dressing, and eating
- Plan activities that the person enjoys and support them attend
- Consider a system or reminders for helping those who must take medications regularly and administer where required by care plan
- When dressing or bathing, we allow the person to do as much as possible.
- Assistance with shopping
- Being gentle and respectful.
- Prepare meals
- Make sure the home is habitable and they are always safe