11th of July, 2017Tips for Caretakers:
Whether you are a relative caregiver or a caregiver sent by a home care agency, dealing with people who have dementia can be difficult and challenging. The challenges come from having to absorb the emotional toll of dementia and also from having to use proper techniques to interact with dementia patients.
Here are some tips to be a good caretaker without the burn out:
Set a positive atmosphere.
When talking to a dementia patient, set a positive tone and atmosphere.
your body language and tone matters a lot when communicating.
your body language and tone matters a lot when communicating.
No matter your mood, remain positive, calm and pleasant.
It will help your loved one or dementia patient absorb information
better and be more receptive.
Redirect their attention.
Sometimes dementia patients get easily upset and agitated.
When this occurs, acknowledge their feelings and change the subject.
"I am sorry I upset you, can you help me fold the laundry and then make dinner?"
It is important to change their focus to something positive to end the feeling
of frustration or agitation.
Think back on the past.
You may have heard their story about how they met their spouse a million
times, but it is important to be receptive to these stories. Often, these are the most
significant to the person with dementia. Their short term memory may be
suffering but they will remember events that happened years ago. Ask them questions,
enjoy their stories; it will make them feel so happy and put them in a good mood.
Communicate simply (ask easy questions).
Do not bombard the dementia patient with questions.
Ask one question at a time. Do not ask open-ended questions;
rather stick to "yes or no" questions. It will be easier for them
to answer and will reduce confusion.