Dementia: General Tips for Daily Care

›Set routines and schedules; the earlier the better. Try going to bed, waking and eating meals at the same time each day. Plan the most difficult tasks for the person's best time of day.
›Be flexible. Remember that the person's abilities can change from day to day, or even from hour to hour. You may have to change your plans mid-stream. Adjust your expectations to their abilities.
› Create a calm environment. Limit the amount of change or distraction. Simple surroundings will make it less confusing for the person. Reduce noise from TV, loud music, and talking. Keep counters clear and put unnecessary items away. Keep things in the same place.
› Meals, bathing and other every day tasks may take much longer than they used to. Allow ample time for the person to complete tasks at their own pace. Leave extra time to get to appointments. If you are rushed, the person may become more confused or upset.
› Offer plenty of reassurance and praise. Comments such as, It's all right, I'm here with you,can help the person feel calmer. Gentle touch, a hug, or holding a hand can also help the person feel safer.Return to top
› Take steps to improve communication:

• Approach the person from the front. Make eye contact. Using the person's first name to get his or her attention might help.
• Talk in a gentle, relaxed and matter-of-fact tone. Sentences should be slow, short, simple and deliver a single message.
• Use concrete words and phrases. Instead of It's time for breakfast, try, Here is your toast.
• Limit the number of choices in a question. For example, ask, Would you like a glass of orange juice? instead of, What would you like to drink?
• Use signals other than words. Show the person what you want - try pointing to something in addition to naming it. Label frequently used items. A picture of a toilet on the door of the bathroom is often helpful. Return to top
• Try to understand the meaning behind what the person is saying. For example, I want to go home, may mean I'm anxious and need reassurance, or I have to go to the bathroom.
•Look and listen for clues in behavior, expressions or body language to determine what the person needs or wants. For example, fidgeting with clothing may be a signal that the person needs to use the bathroom.
• Pay attention to your own body language. Even if the person doesn't understand what you are saying, he or she may still be able to sense your anger, frustration, pleasure or approval.Return to top