1. Join a Support Group
If you are caring for a person who suffers from dementia, consider joining a local dementia support group. Participating in a group gives you an opportunity to talk with others with similar experiences. Group members can recommend reading materials, refer you to health care providers and facilities, offer suggestions and give you other ideas for coping with dementia.
2. Getting Through the Day
When your loved one has dementia, he probably depends on you to help him remember the activities of daily living. These may include getting dressed, cooking, taking medications and attending appointments. Don't let your loved one lie in bed vegetating. Play board games, read to him or watch television together. Don't resent your loved one for not being able do these things by himself.
3. Quiz Medical Experts
When you take your loved one to his doctor's appointment, ask the health care providers about dementia. Find out what you can do to make your loved one's life as comfortable as possible. They can advise you, update you on the latest medications and treatments and make suggestions based on your loved one's particular condition. Keep the doctor's phone number close by in case of an emergency.
4. Don't Forget Yourself
When you are caring for a loved one with dementia, it is easy to forget yourself. You cannot care for someone else if you are not in good health. Make sure you eat well, exercise, get enough sleep and take some time for yourself. Ask others to relieve you and don't feel guilty when you have to take a break away from the patient. Be a model for your loved one. Do healthy things that she can copy.
5. Maintain Your Balance
It is hard to watch a loved one suffer from memory loss. Each day will be challenging and changes may occur regularly. Accept what is happening. Be supportive and remain positive. Spend as much time as possible with your loved one. Don't be offended by any negative comments that he may direct towards you. His words may hurt, but remember that he probably doesn't realize what he's saying. At some point, you may consider seeking the assistance of an adult day care or nursing home. Don't feel guilty. The health care professionals in these facilities are there to help you. If you put your loved in a nursing facility, visit him frequently.
