Dementia is a condition that impairs a person's ability to think and reason, eventually leading to an impairment in her ability to function and care for herself. This results in the need for caregivers, either in her home or in an assisted living environment. The role of the caregiver in the life of a dementia patient is crucial. It's physically and mentally demanding. Knowing ahead of time how to care for a patient with dementia can make it easier for you and the patient.
Always Show Respect
Regardless of the stage of dementia for the patient, always show him respect. It doesn't matter if he's confused and walks outside in his underwear; always treat him as a human being and treat him as you would want to be treated.
If you are a caregiver hired by the family, ask the family how he feels comfortable being addressed (e.g. by his first name, a nickname or as Mr. Smith). If he's aware enough, you may ask him yourself.
Dementia Care Central also recommends using touch with respect. You may be someone who enjoys giving hugs, but the person you're caring for may not respond well to this. Instead, offer him your hand and see how he responds. If he accepts it willingly, you may be able to touch him lightly on the shoulder when speaking to him without fear of him becoming angry.
Provide a Safe Environment
Providing a safe environment is especially important for dementia patients who still reside at home. As the disease progresses, she becomes more prone to falls and accidents, increasing her chances of breaking her hip, legs or arms. Remove any items that may cause her to trip or fall.
The Mayo Clinic also recommends locking any cabinets containing medication, toxic chemicals and dangerous utensils, as her reasoning abilities are impaired by her condition. Have a first-aid kit readily available, along with a fire extinguisher and working smoke alarm.
Learn How to Communicate
A dementia patient may not always make sense when speaking to you. He may jump from one topic to another, talk of a time in his past that is vivid in his mind or be repetitive. Although all of these can be frustrating for you at times, it's imperative to remain patient.
If he requests something--no matter how unreasonable--acknowledge the request by responding, HelpGuide says. You don't have to lie to him, making false promises. But don't disagree with his request, either; this will likely result in an unnecessary confrontation.
Finally, there may be moments when he's certain that someone who has passed away came to visit, or that he just returned from a long trip. Even though you know differently, don't say so. This may spark arguments that will get him emotionally and physically upset, even leading to violent behavior on his part.
Include Her in Tasks
Allowing her to help with certain tasks--such as bathing and dressing--may make the task take longer, but it may slow the progression of the disease. These tasks keep her mobile physically and mentally, and help her maintain a piece of independence. The disease will take this from her soon enough; it's your job to ensure it doesn't take place any sooner than necessary.
Allow More Time for Activities
As dementia progresses, it takes more time for the patient to do everything--from eating to walking. Allot more time for each activity so he doesn't feel rushed when doing anything, especially eating.
While walking with him, be sure to have a firm grip on his hand, or tuck your arm under his with your other arm wrapped around his waist. This ensures that should he stumble, your grip will prevent him from falling. Be sure to walk at his pace, no matter how slow it may be
