Caring for a loved one with dementia is overwhelming but with knowledge about what dementia is and the right attitude towards care needs is very important. Caregivers tasked with caring for dementia patients are given training and education. Knowing what to expect and maintain a realistic attitude toward the condition would allow caregivers to improve the support that these patients need.
About Dementia
Dementia refers to a category of diseases that causes memory loss as well as the deterioration of mental functions. As a person ages, certain changes occur in the physical brain. This is a progressive disease meaning it gets worse as one gets older.
The progress of dementia depends on the underlying cause. There are cases wherein deterioration is fast but in some it can go slowly. Caregivers take note of changes and adjust the care needs accordingly.
What caregivers can provide for dementia patients.
Caregiving for a dementia patient especially in the late stage is a challenge and requires a level of skill. As the disease progresses, the need for attention and care increases. Caregivers can provide the following support:
1. Pays attention to the patient’s needs.
When caring for a person with dementia, attention is given to the loss of cognitive ability, but a seasoned caregiver will be able to attend to the changing physical needs of the patient.
2. Assists in the creation of a “safe home” for the patient.
As the patient’s disease is progressing, there is a need to make changes within the home or facility to reduce fall risk. One of the caregiver’s main role is to provide all the comforts of home plus add a layer of safety.
3. Constant communication to the patient
50% of the cognitive changes in a person with dementia is related to communication. Caregivers are keen in recognizing this change. Patients will find it difficult to express themselves and comprehend what is being talked about. Tools like picture boards or asking simple questions slowly can help in this respect. Caregivers can find ways to get the message the patient is trying to relay.
4. Assist in managing family stress.
If a loved one has a moderate or severe case of dementia, it is normal for the immediate family to have high levels of stress. A caregiver can provide the support and extra care for the patient. Family will be assured that the patient will always have the best care.
Sundowning: What it is, when it appears, contributing factors.
Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia may show more agitation, confusion, irritability, and restlessness towards the end of the day. This is a symptom called sundowning or “late day confusion”. This could be challenging to caregivers especially when they feel tired from all day work, Sundowning usually happens during mid- to late-stage Alzheimer’s and other type of dementia. This is a progressive symptom and can extend towards nighttime resulting in sleep problems.
There are contributing factors that aggravate sundowning:
1. Lack of sleep
2. Fatigue or mental exhaustion
3. Caffeine or alcohol intake before bedtime
4. Room environment like low light or darken room which causes fear and confusion.
5. Upset in circadian rhythms, not being able to determine whether its night or day.
Caring for an elderly with sundowning
Caregivers can resort to the following when taking care of loved ones who have sundowning:
1. As dementia progresses, a person’s ability to reason and perform mundane tasks diminishes. Caregivers must establish a routine not only to monitor functioning but also to give the elderly a sense of comfort and safety.
2. It is beneficial to both caregiver and the elderly to have a structured routine. Important routines can be made in the morning. An example is scheduling an exercise program in the morning hours or some socialization during lunch time.
3. Redirection techniques can be used since sundowner sufferers tend to use foul language, behaves violently or is more emotional. Talk to the patient and direct his or her attention to more pleasant things listening to music or take him or her for a drive or a walk. This technique aims to reduce stress and tension.
4. Have more patience since dealing with a sundowner sufferer is never easy. They may ask the same question repeatedly or may follow you everywhere. It is important to listen and talk in a soothing voice.
5. Sugary food and caffeinated or alcoholic drinks should not be given after midday when possible. This can cause incontinence or sleeplessness.
6. Expose the patient to light in the early morning to help set the internal clock. This is part of what is called light therapy. Keep the environment well-lighted and comfortable.
7. Caregivers should consult a doctor for any change in the patient’s behavior.
Caring for a dementia patient a home
To make life more comfortable and pleasant for loved ones with dementia at home, caregiving should include the following:
1. See to it that the comfort of the elderly is maintained so that he or she remains calm and relaxed.
2. Help make grooming and dressing up easier for the aged family member.
3. Engage in conversation with the elderly.
4. Help make the loved one remember by providing photographs. by making him or her listen to music, telling stories or watching family videos.
5. Manage sleep and behavior problems.
6. Loved ones with dementia should be encouraged to engage in activities that are fun and enjoyable like paying games or having short walks around the neighborhood.
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