When a parent is diagnosed with dementia, things can change. This condition can be complex and often leads to the need for professional help. It’s essential to learn more about dementia whenever you can—this way, you can help your parent in a way that truly makes a difference. So, how do you deal with dementia in a parent?
It all starts with thinking of the challenges your parent faces in their everyday life. Think of the things that are becoming more difficult, and step in where you can to help. Make sure you’re showing respect, support, and love at all times. And if you ever become overwhelmed or worried about the quality of care you’re providing, it may be time to think about memory care.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a lot more complicated than it may seem at first. It’s not a single condition. Instead, the term “dementia” refers to a group of symptoms caused by neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.
As dementia progresses, the symptoms often worsen. Soon, dementia damages brain cells, leading to significant difficulties in a person’s everyday life. Dementia begins to cause:
- Confusion and difficulty remembering recent events or recognizing familiar people and places
- Trouble finding words, following conversations, or understanding language
- Difficulty with complex tasks
- Mood and personality changes
- Disorientation
- Impaired judgment and poor decision-making
- Lack of awareness about safety, finances, or personal hygiene
If you notice these signs in your parent, it could be an early indication of dementia. A proper diagnosis lets you take the next step toward finding your parent the care they need.
Helping Your Parent
If your parent is dealing with any kind of cognitive decline, memory impairment, or dementia, it’s crucial to remember that these conditions can affect almost every part of their life. Tasks that were once simple, like personal hygiene and cleaning, may suddenly become more difficult.
Ask yourself, “How can I improve their life?” and think ahead. By taking active measures to improve your parents’ safety and independence, you can significantly impact their overall quality of life.
Help with Daily Tasks
Try to establish a constant caregiving routine at first. Dementia often causes frustration and anxiety, and this can quickly spiral into confusion. Setting up a continuous and predictable routine can help restore consistency to your parent’s life.
Aim to keep daily activities like mealtimes, bedtime, and hobbies at the same time every day to give a sense of predictability. This can help your parent feel more secure and less anxious, which can help reduce frustration.
Change the Environment
Dementia often causes a person to wander, get lost, or become unable to recognize hazards. This can quickly become dangerous if left unaddressed, so try to:
- Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs or electrical cords
- Label rooms and items to prevent confusion
- Provide adequate lighting throughout their living space to reduce disorientation
- Install handrails and grab bars in key areas like bathrooms and stairways
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach
This can significantly reduce their risk of harming themselves while restoring a sense of independence.
Communicate Effectively
Effective communication can be difficult when dementia is involved, but it’s extremely important. Your parent is dealing with a major change in their life. So remember, any communication problems aren’t about how your parent feels about you.
When talking to a parent living with dementia, try to:
- Speak slowly and clearly
- Use short, direct sentences
- Maintain eye contact and a friendly expression
- Be patient and give them time to respond
- Use visual aids or gestures to enhance understanding
Avoid arguing or trying to correct them if they say something incorrectly. Instead, focus on their emotions and offer reassurance. This can help build a strong support system for your loved ones and let them know you’re there for them.
When to Consider Memory Care
Even if you do everything perfectly, there may be a point when it’s no longer safe for your loved one to stay at home. If this is the case, it’s time to consider memory care.
Memory care is an advanced type of senior living designed to help older adults living with dementia, memory impairment, and any other type of cognitive decline. These communities aren’t just about finding a new place for your parent to live. They offer a community of highly-trained caregivers who truly understand how to help.
In memory care, your parent can enjoy life every day in a community full of engaging activities and programs designed to stimulate cognitive function. Every aspect of the community—from the physical environment to the on-site amenities—is tailored to help. Your parent can get help with all of the daily tasks that give them trouble while being supported by a team of caregivers.
Memory care is a place where your parent can get the help they need in a way that truly makes a difference.
Let Our Team Help
At Liana of Sarasota, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our memory program can help your loved one maintain their dignity and quality of life. We’re dedicated to providing a home where your parent can feel loved, supported, valued, and heard, so schedule a visit with us today!
