When Memory Fades: A Practical Guide to Caring for a Parent With Dementia

Older adults experience changes in their cognitive abilities and memory as they age. Dementia is a common condition that affects memory, mental functions, language, and reasoning. Therefore, it can be difficult for adult children to know what to do when their parents have dementia.

Learning how to support parents with this condition is probably the best way to make caregiving less stressful. Here are helpful strategies adult children can use to keep a parent with dementia safe, calm, and comfortable.

Avoid Arguments

Arguing with someone who has dementia is inappropriate since they may not know or remember some facts. Because of brain deterioration, they may not think, reason, or explain things as they once did. Therefore, they may disagree with some of the instructions caregivers give because they may feel that someone is trying to control or attack them.

If the caregivers do not understand this, they might exacerbate the problem, leading to disputes. Instead of arguing, family members or professionals caring for parent with dementia should gently guide the conversation. If older adults become upset, they should change the topic to avoid conflicts.

For example, adult children should talk about things their parents enjoy and avoid complex issues requiring advanced reasoning. A minor shift in the topic of focus can calm their minds and create a friendly atmosphere.

Let Them Help When They Can

Not all people with dementia behave the same. Some may undertake daily chores without help, while others need full care. Allowing a parent to try something is a great idea if they are still capable. For example, they can water the plants, set the table, fold clothing, and clean the dishes.

These little chores keep their brains and hands active. When seniors with dementia are helpful, they enjoy a sense of purpose and feel they still matter, which improves their emotional well-being. Of course, they should only help with these tasks when it is safe. Adult children should keep an eye on their parents without making them feel watched all the time.

Create a Safe Home Environment

Older adults are more likely to fall and sustain severe injuries. The risk is even greater for those with dementia because they may forget how to use everyday items or get lost in their home or senior community. Caregivers must, therefore, take precautions to keep the environment safe. They should lock the gates, remove sharp objects, and keep clutter out to minimize the risk of injury.

Limit Daytime Sleep

Many older people enjoy naps, but excessive daytime sleep can disrupt nighttime rest and increase confusion. Poor sleep can lead to more confusion, wandering, and even falls. That is why adult children should limit their parents’ naps during the day. They should also try to keep the patient active with light duties, music, chores, or gentle games.

A regular daily routine can help the aging parent feel more in control. It also makes caregiving easier since the affected seniors will sleep well at night, allowing caregivers to rest.

Dementia patients need care and support to ensure their safety and comfort. If caregivers neglect them, they can experience health complications that may require frequent hospital visits. That is why those caring for parents with this condition must learn how to manage the condition. These simple tips and strategies can improve the lives of dementia patients and caregivers.

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