If your elderly loved one is living with dementia, there are many things you can do to help him or her function as well as possible. One way to do this is by providing the type of dementia care Roseville seniors can benefit from, which includes a safe living environment and all of the support and comfort you can offer. Following these general guidelines can help you provide the high-quality care your loved one needs and deserves.
For Home Safety and Wandering Prevention
Your loved one’s home should always be a safe environment he or she feels comfortable living in. Home safety is necessary to help prevent stressful situations and potential dangers pertaining to dementia such as wandering. As a Roseville caregiver, you will need to look at your loved one’s home and determine if it is free of safety risks. Be sure to:
• Install childproof door knobs (this can help prevent seniors with dementia from wandering)
• Have your loved one wear proper identification such as medical bracelets
• Secure all possible exits with locks (this includes all doors and windows)
• Remove interior locks to prevent your loved one from being locked inside a bedroom, bathroom, or any other room in the house
For Bathing
Bathing can be a confusing experience for seniors with dementia, so you want to help ease the process. When bathing your loved one, alternate between showers and baths. Always tell your loved one what you are going to do and provide step-by-step details to prevent confusion or stress. If he or she is able to bathe without assistance, try to let him or her do as much as possible to promote independence.
Be sure to minimize all safety risks by installing a shower bench, grab bars, a handheld showerhead, and nonskid bath mats. This can help eliminate slips and falls. Remember to never leave your loved one in the bathroom alone.
For Sleeping
Assuring your loved one receives an adequate amount of sleep is important because his or her optimal mental functioning depends on rest. You may need to:
• Keep the evenings peaceful (play music to help soothe your loved one)
• Dim the lights and avoid playing the television (or participating in other activities)
• Stick to a consistent bedtime routine
• Avoid giving your loved one caffeine
For Managing Difficult Days
Your loved one may experience hallucinations or delusions as the disease progresses. When these episodes occur, you may need to:
• Change the topic
• Start a new activity
• Go to another room
• Avoid arguing
• Provide comfort and reassurance to your loved one
• Remove all objects in the room that could cause a safety hazard
• Turn off any television programs that are dark, violent, or moody
Though these tips may be helpful, every senior is different. At Home Care Assistance, we understand the comprehensive care a senior with dementia needs. Our professional caregivers can meet your loved one’s complex care needs by helping with bathing, cooking, maintaining regular routines, and much more. Call us today at (916) 226-3737 to learn more about home care Roseville families can trust and believe in.