Alzheimer’s Care and Management
Safehaven specializes in care techniques that reduce difficult behaviors for residents in various stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. We know that providing care to loved ones with dementia can be challenging which is why we offer Alzheimer’s Care for our residents.
We understand that you may be frustrated and unsure of how to handle the day-to-day challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia. Here are a few tips to help you create more meaningful interactions with loved ones.
Maintain Structure and Routine
Research shows a daily routine allows people with Alzheimer’s to experience better moods and suffer less anxiety. Establish a sense of structure with consistent waking, sleep, and meal times. Here at Safehaven, we communicate their daily routine and what to expect next. We also print out schedules for an even greater sense of reassurance.
Keep Your Loved One Hydrated
Maintaining hydration is critical to good health no matter what your age is. Dehydration in seniors can cause medical destabilization, confusion, and agitation. Keeping plenty of water bottles on hand may help make it easier to stay hydrated. We keep water bottles stocked and readily available any time of day to keep our residents healthy.
Enter Your Loved One’s Reality
Don’t argue with people with dementia when something they say is obviously incorrect. Arguing may make them feel angry and that you do not respect them, this will also cause them to strain their brain more which can worsen dementia symptoms over time. Try to maintain a “go with the flow” attitude when you talk. This can help you to keep the connection and familial bond strong.
Focus on Feelings Not Facts
At Safehaven, we strive for our residents to maintain a healthy positive state of mind. This can be achieved by engaging them in activities that meet their personal preferences. Family tensions can deeply affect people with dementia and can cause difficult behavior – even refusal of care. Be sensitive to family dynamics and recognize that tension and negative feelings can impact acceptance of care.
Effectively Communicate
Remember the saying “actions speak louder than words.” With dementia, nonverbal skills become more important as their verbal skills start to fail. Make sure when you see your loved one you smile, don’t cross your arms, make eye contact, and use a positive tone of voice.
Other tips include: keep it simple, ask one question at a time, use yes/no questions, simplify but don’t eliminate choices, and avoid asking questions that require elaborate answers. Avoid using words and phrases such as “don’t,” “you can’t” and “I told you.”
If you have a loved one in the Atlanta area with Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia, consider moving them to a safe and compassionate home-like environment. Here at Safehaven, you can still feel like you’re at home but with the help and support of a dedicated staff. To learn more about our Alzheimer’s Care services and schedule a tour contact us HERE.