Mia
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be complex and emotionally draining, so it’s no surprise that so many of us struggle to know the best way to help parents who have dementia. It’s difficult to find accurate information about what is right for them and their individual circumstances, not to mention the physical, emotional, and practical demands this often brings.
That’s why today we’re discussing how to support parents with dementia while also trying to protect your own well-being. From offering ongoing care plans through providing consistent education and counseling, we’ll explore our options in detail so you feel empowered in knowing what the best choices moving forward – for both you and your beloved parent.
Consider Hiring Professional Services
Caring for a loved one who has dementia can be immensely demanding and challenging, so it is completely understandable if you cannot manage the task alone. Expert help with dementia care may be a profound relief. So, for instance, if you live in the North Shore region of Massachusetts, finding dementia care on the North Shore would not only be logical, but very convenient. The same goes for every other location around the world. Local professional services can be hired for dementia care, giving families additional convenience and assurance about receiving (top-tier) dementia assistance.
One point of contact among dementia care providers is Dementia Care Connection which offers consultation from dementia specialists and referrals to trusted professional home care services. By using licensed dementia homecare providers, not only will your elderly loved one receive quality support, but their well-being will be monitored 24/7 by medical professionals to ensure they get the best dementia care possible.
Educate Yourself About Dementia
Educating yourself on dementia is an excellent way to get a better understanding of what your parent is going through and how their daily life is affected by it. This knowledge can be invaluable when it comes to preparing for any changes that may occur, such as considering new care options or ensuring the proper support system is in place. Understandably, caring for someone with dementia isn’t easy, but arming yourself with knowledge can be incredibly helpful.
Researching available treatments and lifestyle adjustments can provide insight into how you can best meet the needs of your parent in terms of quality of life along with safety and well-being.
Communicate and Connect With Your Parents
Keeping an open line of communication and spending quality time together can make all the difference in their quality of life – as well as yours. Showing warmth and compassion, while welcoming honest emotion and being patient are some of the best ways we can keep our relationship strong. Don’t forget to remember the little things that made your parents special–the stories they told, their hobbies, or their favorite snacks could make all the difference.
Additionally, it is important to remain respectful; small changes such as speaking slowly in simple language messages will ensure that meaningful conversations can occur for longer periods of time. A daughter or son’s care in developing these connections will not only provide comfort and security during this time but a bond that will last forever.
Help with Everyday Tasks
There will come a time, especially due to their memory loss issues, when they may be unable to take care of daily household chores or errands. Taking on the role of aiding in activities like grocery shopping, laundry, and cooking not only lightens their burden but also provides a sense of relief in knowing there is still someone who cares for them.
Although they may not know how to make use of the help or express it verbally, it’s important to remember that even small gestures such as doing something as simple as washing their car make an enormous difference. Furthermore, if the tasks are becoming too much for us to handle ourselves, then consider asking extended family members or friends for aid; any help is always welcomed during this time.
Offer Emotional Support
Reassuring the individual that you are there for them and that you love and care for them is key to their mental and emotional health. Encourage open communication, ask simple questions about their day, boost their confidence in little ways, and provide sincere compliments on a regular basis.
Create a supportive environment by offering your presence without judgment or expectation – just being there can help them feel connected and secure. Offer gentle reminders of moments they enjoyed in the past and distract them from current frustrations by introducing new activities or projects that they can look forward to. When difficulties arise, be patient, stay positive and understanding, and remind yourself of your strength in facing this life-altering condition.
This isn’t an easy task and it’s important that you confront it with the right resources. You can arm yourself with knowledge about the condition, whether by doing research online or attending workshops and support groups. Connecting with your parent on an emotional level will give them comfort during a difficult time – be sure to ask what warm memory they’d like added to the walls of their home or which classic songs they love more than anything.
Finally, don’t forget that it’s just as important to check in on yourself as well – many caregivers neglect self-care in favor of dedicating their efforts towards the patient. Give out love and kindness while also taking care of your needs, and stand strong with your parent during this trying time.
