A Caregiver’s Guide to Helping a Parent with Dementia - TheKey - Canada

When a parent or loved one receives a dementia diagnosis, it can be an overwhelming experience for the entire family. You may feel like your world has been turned upside down and worry about what the future holds for your loved one and yourself. Knowing how to help a parent with dementia involves understanding their needs and finding the right resources so you can approach caregiving with patience, knowledge, and empathy.

While the journey ahead may feel uncertain, knowing what to expect can empower you to face any upcoming challenges with knowledge and compassion to ensure your parent receives the best care.

Understanding Dementia: Learn As Much As You Can

Dementia is the progressive loss of cognitive functioning; it affects memory, thinking, social ability, and behaviour. Because dementia has an impact on nearly every aspect of life, learning as much as you can provides a roadmap for navigating the journey ahead, helping you:

• Anticipate upcoming changes and challenges
• Recognize when your parent needs extra assistance
• Know where to seek professional help
• Make informed decisions
• Focus on creating meaningful moments with your parent

Most importantly, gaining knowledge about dementia equips you with the tools to help your parent maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life. While the future may hold uncertainties, understanding dementia provides a sense of control in your caregiving role.

How to Communicate with Someone with Dementia

Before or since your parent’s dementia diagnosis, you may have noticed some early signs of cognitive decline. They may have trouble finding the right words, repeat questions, or struggle to follow a complex conversation. As dementia progresses, your parent’s ability to express themselves may decline.

Knowing how to communicate with someone with dementia is an integral part of life as a caregiver. Adapting your communication style to meet their needs can help you effectively communicate with your loved one. Here are some tips to consider:

• Simplify language. Use short, straightforward sentences, ask ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions, and give simple, step-by-step instructions.
• Maintain eye contact. Non-verbal cues can be more effective than words. Body language, facial expressions, and a gentle touch or reassuring smile while maintaining eye contact can convey your message when words fail.
• Be patient and actively listen. Give your parent time to speak and show genuine interest in what they say.
• Validate their feelings. Acknowledge their emotions without arguing, criticizing, or correcting them. Consider their feelings behind the words they’re saying; sometimes, emotions are more important than words.

Remember, frustration is common for both you and your parent. Seeking support from friends, family, and professionals and taking regular breaks can help you cope with communication challenges.

Create a Dementia-Safe and Supportive Home Environment

A safe and familiar home environment is central to dementia home care. Adjusting your home can help your parent maintain a good quality of life and ease caregiver anxiety related to safety. Here’s what to consider:

• Remove hazards. Eliminate tripping hazards, secure loose rugs, and install safety features, like grab bars, in the bathroom. Store potentially harmful items, including sharp objects, medication, alcohol, and cleaning supplies, out of reach or in a locked cabinet.
• Create a calming atmosphere. Reduce clutter and provide adequate lighting in hallways and rooms. Research shows that playing music has psychological and mental health benefits for people with dementia, helping reduce anxiety and stress and improving mood. Playing your parent’s favourite tunes may help them relax when they’re having a bad day.
• Establish routines. Consistent daily routines can help them know what to expect each day and reduce confusion and anxiety.
• Encourage physical activity. Regular exercise can improve your parent’s mood, sleep, and well-being. Depending on their fitness level and coordination, this may include gentle exercises like walking, stretching, or using a stationary bike.

While caring for a parent or loved one with dementia at home can be rewarding, it can be equally challenging. Recognizing your limitations and knowing when you need a break or outside help is essential. Respite care and in-home dementia care services can provide much-needed breaks and support.

Legal and Financial Considerations for Loved Ones with Dementia

Addressing legal and financial matters can protect your parent’s best interests now and into the future. If your parent can, sit down with them to discuss basic legal and financial concerns, address current issues, and discuss their wishes for future care. Documents such as a will, living trust, and advance directives ensure your parent’s late-stage or end-of-life healthcare and financial decisions are respected.

Here are some legal steps to take when a parent has dementia to ensure you and your parent are both cared for legally and financially:

• Power of attorney. Identify and appoint a trusted person to handle financial and legal affairs when your parent cannot.
• Advance healthcare directive. This document communicates your parent’s wishes regarding medical treatment when they can no longer make decisions. This document will include the power of attorney and a living will that declares your parent’s wishes for treatment if they are near the end of life or unconscious. Depending on your parent’s preferences, it may also include a do not resuscitate (DNR) order, which instructs healthcare providers not to perform life-saving measures like CPR if their heart stops beating or they stop breathing.
• Estate planning. Review and update wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents.

Consider consulting an elder care attorney or geriatric care manager who can provide expert knowledge and guidance on these complex topics.

Seek and Build a Strong Dementia Support Network

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be an emotionally and physically taxing experience. Building a solid support network offers a lifeline for advice and support and a safe space to vent frustrations and celebrate small victories. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength and is one of the best things you can do for your and your parent’s well-being. Here’s what to consider:

• Join support groups. Connecting with other caregivers facing similar challenges can provide comfort and advice.
• Connect with your parent’s healthcare provider. Establish a strong relationship with your parent’s healthcare provider and seek support from specialized dementia care professionals.
• Maintain social connections. Encourage friends to visit and engage with your parent. Social interaction is vital for connection, joy, and quality of life.
• Take breaks. Respite care services allow you to rest and recharge, knowing your parent is in good hands.

TheKey: Your Partner in Dementia Care

At TheKey, we aim to empower families by providing exceptional dementia support, allowing you to focus on what matters most. We offer comprehensive dementia home care services to support you and your loved one, providing assistance with:

• Personal care. Our caregivers help with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting assistance, ensuring your loved one’s hygiene and safety are a top priority.
• Memory and dementia care. Personalized care plans cater to the unique needs of people with dementia, providing engaging activities, cognitive stimulation, and companionship.
• Overall wellness. Our Balanced Care Method^® provides a holistic approach to dementia care that addresses nutrition, sleep, physical activity, connection, brain-stimulating activities, and mental health needs.

Knowing how to help a parent or loved one with dementia can be a big learning curve, but you don’t have to go through it alone. You can ensure that they get the best possible care with the proper support, knowledge, and resources. Remember to prioritize your well-being, seek professional guidance and assistance when needed, and celebrate the moments of connection and joy.

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Considering in-home dementia care or have questions about the types of support we offer? Our specialists are here to help determine the best plan to meet your parent’s or loved one’s needs. Contact TheKey today to get started.