Dementia - 10 Tips For A Caregiver!

When you are a caregiver to a patient suffering from dementia, things can get pretty tough. Improving your communication skills will help you in maintaining a steady relationship with the patient. Your loved ones need you the most in this troubled time and you can follow these tips to provide your support for a dementia patient.

1. Create a positive atmosphere for interaction: Your body language and your approach, speaks a lot. So try to create a positive space for you and your loved one to interact in. Be pleasant and respectful and suppress your irritation and any kind of negativity.
2. Get the patient’s attention: Try to cut off any kind of noise and distraction while you are speaking to the patient. Try to attract the attention and address him/her by their name. Identify yourself thoroughly and keep the communication strong so as to hold their attention.
3. Convey your message clearly: Avoid any complex language and jargons when you are communicating. Use simple words and sentences coupled with slow and distinct enunciation. Do not raise your voice, as it may startle the patient; rather keep your voice soothing.
4. Stick to simple and understandable questions: You should ask questions that can be answered in a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’. It’s best not to ask any open-ended questions. Also, stick to one question at a time.
5. Open your heart, eyes and ears to the patient: Gather all your patience while conversing with your loved one. Try to understand them rather than listening to them. You can suggest words, prompt a reply or a feeling may be.
6. Assist in daily physical activities: Help your loved one to carry on with their life. Encourage them to do something that they may love. Remind them of each step on what to do next if they forget.
7. Be engaged at an emotional level: Your loved one may get agitated or upset and you need to distract and redirect them. In order to do this, you have to connect at an emotional level with the patient.
8. An affectionate response is essential: As patients often feel confused and anxious, it is essential that you respond to them affectionately and reassure them of the comfort and support that you are ready to provide.
9. Remembering the old days: In most cases, a dementia patient won’t remember what happened a few hours back, but they hold a vivid memory of the old days. Try to pluck at them as that will keep your loved one engaged and active.
10. Sense of humor: Use a sense of humor as it helps your loved one to laugh along with you and be there in the moment.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!