A guide to caring for a parent with dementia

Caring for a parent with dementia is not an easy task. It’s difficult watching someone you love slip away from you, even though they’re physically still there — not to mention the practical task of watching them round the clock to ensure their safety. All of this can leave you physically and emotionally exhausted. However, there are things you can do to make things a little easier.

Learn About Dementia

On paper, this seems like a no-brainer, but dementia is an unwelcome reality and it’s tempting to ignore it for as long as possible. However, instead of turning a blind eye, you should educate yourself about what’s to come as the disease advances so that you are ready for any challenges that arise. Being prepared is a key step to providing effective care for a parent with dementia.

Empathise

Dealing with a dementia patient can be frustrating — you’re only human — but it’s really important to empathise with your parent. Imagine how scary it would be if you suddenly found yourself in a strange place, surrounded by people you didn’t know. Or, imagine if you weren’t sure what year it was anymore. It’s a scary process and patients can become difficult to deal with through no fault of their own. Being as empathetic as possible is important to provide good care for your parent and help you relate to their struggles.

Seek Support

There are support groups available where you can meet other caregivers who likely have a better understanding than other people in your life — even if close friends have the best intentions. It’s important to be able to talk to people who can relate to exactly what you’re going through, and it’s also a valuable opportunity to swap tips, information and resources for further support. If you really can’t make it to a group, there are online forums which can help, too.

Help with Everyday Tasks

In the early stages of dementia, using memory aids and helping with small, everyday tasks can help the patient live as independently as possible — and maintain a life similar to the one they had before they were diagnosed. Labelling jars and cupboards, doing the weekly shop or cleaning the house can be hugely helpful.

Consider Care Options

The level of care your parent will need is likely to escalate over time. You could start by having a carer visit whilst you’re at work, or for just a few hours a week to give you a break. Eventually though, it’s worth considering a residential home so that your parent has constant professional care. For example, Ashbourne House is a dementia care home Bristol that provides excellent care in a lovely setting.

Help Them to Sleep

Sleep disturbance is a common symptom of dementia. Often it subsides over time, but until then, there are things you can do to help your parent sleep. Make sure they are active enough in the day and try to find time to go for a walk together if possible. Encourage them to reduce their caffeine intake and avoid napping during the day to ensure they feel tired at night. It’s also possible to purchase alarm clocks that display the day of the week — and whether it’s night or day —so that your parent doesn’t wake up confused.