Most accidents occur when one is tired, rushing, after an argument or when someone in the home is sick. Recognize these situations and have a plan if they arise
Know physical and mental limits of a person with dementia to avoid accidents and their capabilities to complete a task they once could do easily
Develop an emergency plan in case you need it and review this plan every 6 months
Adapt home environment to make it safer including reducing clutter and use of electrical appliances and machinery
Heart healthy diet recommended maintaining a regular routine of times during days and meals
Smaller more regular meals may be recommended for patients who are more active
3. Exercise
Regular exercise can help with regulating mood as well as reducing stress and maintain one’s health
There must be a balance for exercise and recreation as too much stimulation or activity may upset a person with dementia
4. Recreation
Consider an adult day care program or at home visiting program
Try and find activities that are still enjoyable but do not put strain on daily activities or over-stress the person with dementia or caregiver
5. Personal hygiene
As the ability to care for oneself diminishes try and keep tasks of daily hygiene more simple
6. Walking and balance
Different parts of the brain are affected as dementia progresses including balance and coordination
Caregiving for Someone with Dementia
Learn about dementia and stay informed about its progression using sites such as the Alzheimer’s Association along with other books and web sites provided on our website
Be open to conversation about your and the person with dementia’s feelings to avoid frustration and situations that could lead to avoidable disagreements
There are good and bad days during the progression of dementia and each day should be taken individually allowing for adaptability to occur through the advancement of dementia
Maintain a sense of humor, creativity, and imagination as every individual advance with dementia differently and these traits will allow you to accept change better
Create and maintain a structured environment and daily habits as changes in these daily behaviors can cause frustration for both the individual and caregiver
From early on maintain an ID bracelet or necklace on the person you are caregiving for as persons with dementia can wander at times
Maintain good sleep and regular diet as these two habits will be crucial to your mood and ability tolerate being a caregiver
Maintain regular physical activity that both you as a caregiver and person with dementia enjoy and are not prohibited by one’s physical abilities
