Dementia is one of the leading causes of death among adults aged 65 and older. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that it was responsible for 288,436 deaths in 2022.
Currently, there is no cure for dementia, and the disease progresses with more advanced symptoms occurring in the later stages. Looking after a loved one with dementia requires a holistic approach that is capable of meeting the evolving needs caused by the condition.
Let’s learn how to take care of a parent with dementia using practical caregiving tips.
Learn About Dementia
You can only develop effective dementia care strategies if you understand the condition. One of the first things you need to learn about dementia is that it isn’t a single disease. It’s a term encompassing different neurodegenerative diseases that impair cognitive functionality.
You can gain a better grasp of the condition by researching “how to take care of a parent with dementia“ on the internet. Some of the common types of dementia include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Unspecified dementia
- Lewy Body dementia
Understanding the specific type of dementia affecting your parent will help you create a comprehensive care program. As dementia progresses, your loved one may require more attention and care, and that’s where an assisted living community comes in.
Assisted living communities for senior adults have the amenities and necessary care programs to address the needs of individuals with dementia. However, you can still implement family caregiving strategies in the home environment, such as the following:
Creating a Daily Routine
Establish a routine for your parent that will reduce anxiety and confusion. Further, set a consistent schedule for meal times, leisure activities, and sleep or relaxation. It’s advisable to assist your parent with daily living activities such as cooking or shopping for groceries.
Use memory aids that can help your loved one remember various areas of the home environment. This means labeling items in the house and using visual cues.
Foster Better Communication
Dementia may begin to impair your parent’s communication abilities. Some of the communication strategies you can implement include:
- Speaking slowly and using a gentle tone
- Redirecting their attention back to the conversation if they get distracted
- Creating a positive mood
- Incorporating jokes when communicating
It’s essential to be patient and adapt your communication strategy to meet your parent’s needs.
Create a Safe Home Environment
According to the Alzheimer’s Organization, Alzheimer’s disease is the fifth leading cause of death for older citizens. The mortality rate of dementia is often exacerbated if the patient is living in an unsafe environment.
You can create a safe home environment by:
- Reducing the risk of falls by eliminating tripping hazards
- Installing grab bars in bathrooms to enhance mobility
- Using assistive devices such as non-slip shoes
In addition, secure dangerous items such as sharp objects and medication. You may also need to child-proof certain areas of your home. These actions help mitigate the risk of injury to your parent but come with the burden of monitoring them 24/7.
Creating an optimal home environment can be difficult and very expensive. Fortunately, a residential senior living community offers an ideal space for seniors with dementia to thrive. The community has professional staff and different living options that can support or enhance your loved one’s well-being.
Improve Nutritional Content in the Diet
Ensure your parent eats a balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients. The right food can be instrumental in improving their physical strength. It can also support senior mental health needs, especially when the condition progresses.
Give your parents a regular mealtime schedule to encourage them to eat. You can also encourage them to drink plenty of water while measuring their weight regularly to note any changes. Consult your physician and have them provide you with additional caregiving resources.
When to Transition to Assisted Living
Providing at-home care isn’t always enough to meet the complex care needs of people with dementia. As a caregiver, it can become overwhelming, leading to adverse health problems for you and your parent.
According to the World Health Organization, dementia care cost the world $1.3 trillion in 2019. At-home caregivers bear the majority of this cost. Some of the indicators you need to transition to an assisted living community are:
- Inability to carry out activities of daily living
- Presence of more than one health condition
- Losing time from work
- Mobility problems
Caring for your parent at home can be challenging even if you have the right support. Luckily, assisted living communities are a better alternative.
Specialized Care Support
Assisted living communities have specialized care support services. The trained staff can create individualized care plans for your parent depending on their needs. For example, the staff can provide medication management and administration.
There is also 24/7 access to staff and assistance with daily living activities, and emergency response protocols are in place.
Mental and Physical Health Support
The senior living community programs focus on holistic well-being for all residents. So, you’ll find health and fitness programs with access to the following:
- Water aerobic
- Well-equipped gym
- Resort-style outdoor pool
- Physical therapy
Your parent will be paired with peers and a resident ambassador. This arrangement provides them with a social support system crucial to fostering better mental well-being. Residents also enjoy restaurant-style dining and a full calendar of activities.
Memory Care Units
Assisted living communities provide specialized memory care units. They can provide a secure environment and activities designed to stimulate one’s cognitive abilities.
Besides, the staff are specifically trained to provide care for dementia patients. With an optimally designed floor plan and layout, the community has little to no confusion.
Master How to Take Care of a Parent With Dementia Today
Learning how to take care of a parent with dementia is not easy. Hiring at-home caregivers can be a temporary solution, but sooner or later, you may need to confront the reality that you need more help and specialized care.
At Aston Gardens at Pelican Pointe, we’re proud to provide a home-like environment that caters to various needs. From concierge services and memory care to fun and engaging activities, our dementia care program is nationally recognized for improving senior mental health.
Contact us today to explore our caregiving programs for Alzheimer’s support and dementia in Venice, FL.
