Caring for dementia patients at home is a daunting task. While the understanding of Alzheimer’s and other conditions which may cause dementia is key to proper care, a positive attitude is also a must to meet the challenges this disorder possesses. An element of control is crucial to deal with memory issues, communication problems, and mood swings in dementia patients caused by a progressive brain disorder.

Dementia usually occurs in people 65 years of age and older. This is the age when cognitive, physical, and functional disabilities are more visible. When these changes happen, there should be a practical strategy in place to improve a patient’s quality of life in the face of these life-altering occurrences.

• Here are five essential tips for caring for dementia patients in their homes

#1. Know The Disease Well

Educating yourself about dementia, its symptoms, effects, and stages of the disease is the most effective way to care for dementia patients at home. Dementia is not just memory loss but a progressive deterioration of the brain functions. Patients develop memory and thinking problems, and daily-chores become more difficult to perform.

Those with moderate to severe stages of dementia are very difficult to manage. Caregivers should be mindful of the confusion, cursing, kicking, or screaming that may occur. Other challenges associated with dementia are eating trouble and personality changes. Being knowledgeable about the disease will make it easier for caregivers to handle symptoms and consequent behavioral volatility.

#2. Be Realistic About Challenges

Caring for someone with dementia at home is very challenging. Symptoms worsen with time and it is not always easy to predict when changes will occur. Dementia makes it difficult for patients to communicate properly. The disease may trigger frequent mood swings and combative behavior. These are all challenges to consider when providing home care for dementia patients. Getting to know the patient and finding successful ways to calm them during episodes are the best ways to cope.t

If the cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s, the responsibilities may turn more complex as this disease progresses, making symptoms more severe with age. Caregivers should be trained on the different stages of the disease to be able to ensure proper care and comfort.

#3. Stay Mentally Prepared

 It is a long, stressful, and intensely emotional experience when you are caring for dementia patients at home. The combination of decreased cognitive abilities and age-induced physical incapacities contributes to extensive functional disabilities.

Some seniors with dementia become restless and cannot sleep. Being aware of the changes that are taking place and making sure care and attention to details are always a priority will help caregivers remain prepared to handle this disease.

#4. Focus on Safety

Dementia leads to confusion, memory loss, and other health issues, therefore, in-home dementia care protocols must take into recognition multiple threats to the life and emotions of such patients.

Seniors with Alzheimer’s often have limited mobility and coordination. Their cognitive dysfunction makes them vulnerable to getting lost even in familiar places. Usually, this disease makes it hard to lead an independent life. Patients become more susceptible to abuse and economic exploitation. Caregivers can safeguard against vulnerabilities by paying close attention to the needs of the patient and maintaining an injury-free environment.

#5. Be Ready for Integrated Care

As memories disappear and skills erode, dementia patients become physically restricted and develop an increased risk of other health issues. Disturbances in the brain make them psychologically unstable. Age also plays a part in exuberating disabilities, a key focus of in-home care for dementia patients.

Integrated care should include efforts to stabilize and improve psychological health, arrest the decline in physical condition, and prevent or manage any medical problems. Dementia patients should stick to a routine lifestyle and continue to have familiarity with the environment while feeling safe and secure.

Are you looking for caregivers who can make a difference while offering the best in-home care for dementia patients? Get in touch with ABloom Home Care, which provides 24-hour home care for dementia patients.