Dementia

Dementia is a result of diseases that affect how the brain works. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Symptoms occur gradually over time. Memory loss is usually the first symptom. Dementia also affects mental and physical functioning. Dementia does not affect each person the same.

• Dementia symptoms fall into five groups:
  • Decreased attention span – the person may be unable to do two things at onc  Even familiar activities and tasks take longer and may not be done correctly. May stop doing favorite hobbies.
  • Difficulty with decision-making and complex projects – extra time is needed to do the pla Decreasing ability to do a job and care for household upkeep and expenses.
  • Memory – long-term memory is usually better than short-term memory.
  • Forgets where he/she placed items. Repeats question May not be able to find his/her way home if walks out the door.
  • Language problems – difficulty remembering names of people and objects. Grammar slowly worsens. The person may not be able to use simple words or may use the wrong word to fill in what he/she does not know.  It may be hard to know what the person is trying to say.
  • Unaware of what is socially accepted behavior – may not dress for situation and weat Exhibits decreased empathy and inhibition in what he/she does and says. May have a personality change.
  • All symptoms cause safety risks.

•  Any signs of the behaviors listed above
•  Any signs of unsafe behaviors, including hurting themself or others
•  Needing more help to care for the person with dementia

Family

• When assisting someone with dementia, remember that:
  • He/she has limited control of his/her abilities and beha
  • He/she believes that their “reality” is what is
  • All behaviors are communicating something.
• Respect the person by treating him/her as an ad
• Allow the person as much control as safely allo Give two choices – “Do you want to wear the green shirt or the red shirt today?”
• Remind the person of the day, place, and time until this no longer has meaning to the person.
• Tell the person what you are going to do before you do “I am going to help you with your shower.” “I will help you take off your shirt.”
• Try to find the meaning behind the behaviors, emotions, and feelings of the person. Being combative during a bath may mean he/she is Pacing may mean he/she has forgotten the location of the bathroom.
• Create a daily routine with small rituals, which include activities that he/she can complet These can consist of prayers, washing hands, or preparing food.  Try not to overtire the person.
• Allow the person to do as much of their own care as possi This will help maintain their self-esteem.
• Include activities with positive memories that have meaning to the person –hobbies, pictures
• Provide physical closeness, hand holding, if acceptable by him/
• Talk in a calm, reassuring, and inviting m “Let’s go to the dining room.”
• Remember that safety for you and the person is always first!
• When bothersome or unsafe behaviors are exhibited, redirect the person to safer, more enjoyable activiti Know his/her “triggers” that can be used to redirect his/her attention. Start singing a favorite song that you know he/she will join you in singing.
• Caring for someone with dementia is physically and emotionally demanding –remember to take care of yourself and ask for help when need