A Guide to Dementia Care: How Carers Can Support People Living With Dementia

Avoid situations that can cause stress

Having dementia alters how residents can handle confusion or stress. Therefore, it’s important to set residents up for success through avoiding unnecessary change.

Routine is crucial when it comes to dementia patients. The more individuals stick to a schedule and recognise their environment, the more optimally their brain can perform.

So, when it comes to working in care homes for dementia it’s important to play towards this fact and avoid going against it. If you think a resident could benefit from trying a new activity, approach it in an organised, gradual way with structure behind it.

Monitor food and drink intake

A healthy, well-balanced diet is of course an important aspect of healthy living for everyone, whether you are diagnosed with dementia or not.

However, it can be difficult for dementia patients to achieve this due to the confusion they experience.

For instance, a common issue individuals with dementia experience is not being able to pick up on cues that they are thirsty.

Likewise, individuals may not consume any foods which are unrecognisable to them and become at risk of under-eating.

Therefore, it’s important for carers working in a care home for dementia to offer their residents food they know they like, and in smaller less overwhelming portions.

Make measures to avoid sleep issues

Dementia can make individuals less familiar with their ‘body clock’ which affects their sleep patterns.

It may become difficult for residents in a care home for dementia to differentiate between night and day. They may get up during the night and sometimes wish to get dressed for the day.

This stage in dementia, if monitored can settle over time. The best things you can implement to help with this are:

• Making sure residents receive enough physical activity and daylight in their routines
• Ensure their bedroom is a relaxing and comfortable space
• Try to limit the time they spend in their bedroom during the day. If possible, avoid daytime naps
• Put a limit on caffeine intake in the evening

Understand each patient’s specific needs

Individuals with dementia do not all have the same needs. Everyone is unique, and what might work for one person may not agree with the other.

It’s important to take the time to understand each resident, their unique preferences and what level of care currently works best for them.

Find which methods of communication work best with each resident, and use it to ensure they are happy and comfortable in their environment.

Looking for the perfect care home for dementia for your loved ones?

The Bill House offers specialist care for loved ones with dementia. With facilities such as our dedicated Dementia Garden, you can be assured your loved ones are receiving the care they require to live life to the fullest. Get in touch to find out more.