Dementia Action Week: Vivant Shares Dementia Care Guidance
In the UK, dementia cases are expected to rise from the current 1 million to 1.4 million in 2024 – making it more crucial than ever that those recently diagnosed with dementia can get the support they need to maintain living a meaningful, high-quality life.
To mark Dementia Action Week (13th to 19th May), we’ve shared guidance to help support those who have recently taken on the care of someone with dementia and seeking external professional advice.
Dementia Action Week: Educating Yourself About Dementia
Understanding dementia is crucial for managing and anticipating changes in behaviour and cognitive function.
Familiarising yourself with the various stages and symptoms can help you better support the person with dementia. Knowledge about the condition allows you to identify early signs and seek appropriate interventions, improving the overall quality of care.
Additionally, understanding dementia helps in empathising with the person's experiences, reducing frustration for both the caregiver and the person with dementia.
There are numerous resources available, including books, online courses, and support groups, which can provide valuable insights and strategies for effective care.
Establishing a Routine
People with dementia often find comfort in a predictable and structured daily routine.
Consistency in activities, such as meal times, bathing, and bedtime, can significantly reduce confusion and anxiety. A well-established routine helps the person know what to expect, providing a sense of security and stability.
This can be particularly important as cognitive functions decline, making it harder for them to remember or adapt to new situations.
By maintaining a regular schedule, caregivers can create a calming environment that supports the emotional well-being of the person with dementia, helping them feel more at ease.
Encouraging Independence
Allowing the person with dementia to do as much as they can for themselves is vital in maintaining their abilities and self-esteem.
Encouraging independence in daily activities, such as dressing, eating, or grooming, provides them with a sense of control and accomplishment.
It’s important to be patient and provide support only when necessary, rather than taking over tasks entirely. This approach not only helps in preserving their functional skills but also boosts their confidence.
Adapting tasks to their current abilities and offering positive reinforcement can significantly enhance their quality of life.
Using Simple Communication
Effective communication with a person with dementia involves speaking clearly and calmly, using short and simple sentences. It’s essential to be patient and give them ample time to process information and respond.
Avoiding open-ended questions and instead offering choices can make it easier for them to communicate their needs and preferences. Non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language, can also be helpful.
Simplifying communication helps reduce misunderstandings and frustration, making interactions more positive and productive for both the caregiver and the person with dementia.
Creating a Safe Environment
Modifying the living environment to reduce risks is crucial for the safety of a person with dementia. Installing grab bars in bathrooms, removing trip hazards, and ensuring adequate lighting are some of the ways to create a safer home.
Other modifications might include securing rugs, using non-slip mats, and organising furniture to provide clear pathways. A safe environment can prevent accidents and injuries, giving both the person with dementia and the caregiver peace of mind.
Regularly assessing and adapting the living space as the condition progresses is essential to meet changing needs and ensure ongoing safety.
Adopting Technology
Adopting technology for people living with dementia is crucial as it enhances their quality of life and ensures their safety.
Technological tools like GPS trackers, smart home devices, and medication reminders help monitor patients' activities, preventing wandering and ensuring adherence to medication schedules.
Cognitive stimulation apps and virtual reality can engage and improve cognitive functions, slowing the progression of symptoms.
Furthermore, technology enables better communication between caregivers and medical professionals, ensuring timely interventions and personalised care plans.
By integrating technology, caregivers can provide more effective, efficient, and compassionate care, ultimately improving the overall well-being of those with dementia.
Focusing On Individualised Care
Tailoring activities and care to the specific likes and abilities of the person with dementia is essential for their well-being.
What works for one person may not be effective for another, so it's important to personalise the approach based on their preferences and cognitive level. Individualised care can include engaging them in hobbies they enjoy, adapting tasks to their capabilities, and being mindful of their emotional state.
This approach fosters a sense of identity and purpose, making daily interactions more meaningful and enjoyable. Personalised care helps maintain their dignity and enhances their quality of life.
Promoting Physical Activity
Encouraging regular physical exercise is beneficial for a person with dementia, as it can improve mood, sleep, and overall health.
Activities such as walking, stretching, or light gardening can be incorporated into their daily routine.
Exercise helps in maintaining mobility and strength, reducing the risk of falls and other health issues, whilst also providing an opportunity for social interaction and engagement with the environment.
Tailoring physical activities to their abilities ensures they are safe and enjoyable, contributing to their physical and mental well-being.
Engaging in Cognitive Activities
Tailoring cognitive activities to the interests and cognitive level of the person with dementia can keep them engaged without causing frustration.
Activities such as puzzles, memory games, reading, or listening to music can stimulate their mind and provide enjoyment. It's important to choose activities that are enjoyable and achievable to avoid feelings of failure or stress.
Engaging in cognitive activities helps maintain mental functions, provides a sense of accomplishment, and can be a source of social interaction.
Regular cognitive stimulation can contribute to better overall cognitive health and quality of life.
Engaging in Reminiscence Therapy
Encouraging the person with dementia to talk about past experiences and memories can be highly beneficial.
Reminiscence therapy involves discussing significant life events, using photo albums, music, or familiar objects to stimulate memories.
This therapy can improve mood, cognitive function, and provide an opportunity for meaningful conversations. Sharing memories can strengthen emotional connections and give the person a sense of identity and continuity.
It also offers a chance for caregivers to learn more about their loved one’s past, fostering a deeper understanding and bond.
Supporting Behavioural Changes
Staying patient and calm when supporting behavioural changes in a person living with dementia is crucial.
Instead of confronting or arguing, it’s often more effective to redirect and distract them from problematic behaviours. Understanding the triggers for certain behaviours can help in anticipating and preventing issues.
Using soothing tones, maintaining a calm demeanour, and offering reassurance can de-escalate tense situations. Behavioural changes are a part of the condition, and responding with empathy and patience can significantly improve interactions and reduce stress for both the person with dementia and the caregiver.
Monitoring Health and Medication
Keeping track of medical appointments, medications, and any changes in health is essential for the well-being of a person with dementia.
Ensuring they take their medications as prescribed and watching for side effects or interactions is crucial.
Regular health check-ups can help in managing coexisting conditions and addressing any emerging health issues promptly. Caregivers should maintain a detailed record of medical information and communicate effectively with healthcare providers.
Monitoring health and medication helps in providing comprehensive care and improving the person’s quality of life.
Maintaining a Balanced Diet
Ensuring that the person with dementia eats a healthy, balanced diet is vital for their overall health.
Encouraging nutritious meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps in maintaining physical health and cognitive function. Monitoring for any changes in appetite or eating habits is important to address nutritional needs promptly.
Preparing meals that are easy to eat and appealing can encourage better eating habits. A balanced diet supports overall well-being and can contribute to better management of dementia symptoms.
Taking Care of Your Health
Caregiving is a demanding role, and it is essential for caregivers to take care of their own health.
Ensuring that you are eating well, getting enough sleep, and taking time for yourself is crucial to avoid burnout.
Seeking regular medical check-ups and finding time for relaxation and hobbies can help maintain your well-being. It's important to recognise the signs of stress and take steps to manage it effectively.
Taking care of your health enables you to provide better care for the person with dementia and sustain your caregiving role.
Seeking Support
Connecting with local caregiver support groups or online communities can provide valuable practical advice and emotional support.
Sharing experiences with others in similar situations can offer insights and coping strategies. Support groups can also provide a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation.
Professional counselling or therapy can be beneficial for managing stress and emotional challenges.
Seeking support helps caregivers to navigate the complexities of caregiving, improve their well-being, and enhance the quality of care they provide.
Planning For the Future
As dementia progresses, the needs of the person with the condition will change.
Discussing and preparing for future care options early on can ensure that appropriate plans are in place.
This might include considering professional help from a home care provider, legal and financial planning, and discussing wishes with family members.
Planning for the future helps in making informed decisions and reduces stress during crisis situations. It allows the person with dementia to have a say in their care preferences and ensures that their needs are met as the condition advances.
Embracing New Opportunities
People living with dementia can still enjoy a fulfilling life through tailored activities and specialised services.
Across the UK, many hair salons now have hairdressers trained to work with dementia patients, providing a comfortable and understanding environment.
Similarly, yoga classes led by instructors knowledgeable about dementia offer therapeutic benefits, improving flexibility, balance, and mental well-being.
Additionally, community centres and organisations often host memory cafés and social events, fostering social interaction and engagement.
These activities not only enhance the quality of life but also help maintain a sense of normalcy and joy, allowing individuals with dementia to continue participating in meaningful experiences.
In addition to the guidance for Dementia Action Week, we’ve also launched a free consultation service for people looking for further support and advice on caring for someone with dementia.
The helpline, which you can contact here, will see our dedicated team of professionals answer any questions and set up video calls to discuss support further where appropriate.
At Vivant, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional support that enables individuals to maintain their desired lifestyles.
With a focus on choice and empowerment, we offer concierge services, tailored care support, and the ability to select preferred teams, ensuring a personalised and dignified approach to home care.
If you’d like to use our new consultation service, please email your query to hello@vivantlife.co.uk and a member of our team will get back to you.
