Dementia is a disease that robs the elderly of not only memories but security as well. People and things that were once familiar to them become strange and unknown. As the disease progresses, feelings of frustration and anger become more prevalent. Caregivers must learn to understand the disease and how its progression may affect their loved one. Learning to care for a person with dementia and its accompanying problems may call for special training.
General Care
In the beginning stages of dementia, getting lost, losing things and forgetting daily habits become more noticeable. According to Northern County Psychiatric Associates in Baltimore, Md., missing appointments and having trouble with daily activities, like cooking, are signs the disease is progressing. Supervision may be needed throughout the day to make sure the patient makes it to appointments, eat regular meals and takes their medications. Caregivers should also make sure the patient bathes or showers daily.
Care at Home
Staying in familiar surroundings for as long as possible may help to keep the dementia patient comfortable and relaxed. As the disease progresses, it may take the dementia patient longer to perform simple tasks. Calling them by name and keeping instructions short will help them to follow through on tasks. Ask for help and include the patient in activities.
Instead of asking yes or no questions, provide options. They may not be able to remember what the options are for certain questions. Try not to overwhelm them with information. Keep things simple. Do activities step by step.
Group Homes
Group homes are facilities with around-the-clock staff members that provide the dementia patient with a structured life style. Activities are based upon their abilities and performed as a group or with two or three people working together. Group home staff members make sure the patient has regular meals, activities throughout the day, and proper hygiene. They also ensure that doctor's appointments are kept and medications are taken on time.
The staff of each group home is trained in crisis prevention to assist in the care of dementia patients who have become more physical and have violent outbursts. These staff are taught how to handle such situations and to prevent the patient and the worker from being injured.
Residential and Assisted Living
Residential and assisted-living facilities allow the dementia patient and her spouse to remain together for as long as possible. Assisted-living facilities have around-the-clock staff at a central location to assist the residents, if a patient gets out of hand or has problems with a task or activity. According to MayoClinic.com, many residential facilities provide meals, laundry and housekeeping services for the residents. Some may also provide transportation to and from appointments.
Nursing Homes
Many nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities have wings designated solely for Alzheimer's and dementia patients. These units are usually locked down and an access code must be used to open doors. This is to ensure the safety of the residents. As dementia progresses, patients tend to wander; many do not know where they are going or why.
Activities are provided, based on the ability of each person. Patients are encouraged to interact with each other and are under constant supervision by staff.
Patients may need assistance with daily care activities, such as bathing and feeding themselves. Toileting may also be monitored and, in some cases, adult briefs may be used to prevent accidents.
The staff in nursing facilities are trained, much like the staff in group homes and assisted living facilities. Special classes are given on a regular basis to ensure the staff has the techniques and knowledge to keep their patients healthy and safe.
