Dementia Care
requires sensitive caregivers with the right approach. Different types of dementia can have very different presentations, rates of progression and associated care needs. The same type of dementia can have very different presentation for each person.
Skilled caregivers are trained in what to look for and how to approach individuals with dementia. Even among skilled caregivers; some have a natural aptitude and passion for later stage dementia care and others do not. Dementia Care involves a lot of patience and learning for each person.- How to approach initially for acceptance
- What specific queues or language someone responds to
- What is their 'normal' for behaviors and routines - And how is it changing
- What triggers their anxiety, defensiveness or anger
- Understanding how they will accept help, especially when it comes to intimate care that triggers defensiveness
- Understanding how to include them in activities so they continue participating in daily life
- The risks of burnout associated with dementia care are considerable. For those who live with the person they care for - feeling trapped with a person you love and may have lived with for decades is a very challenging and not uncommon situation.
- Situations often start gradually and worsen over years until the primary caregiver reaches a breaking point. Avoiding the breaking point of caregiver burnout should be a priority if only because once someone reaches that point they return to it faster in the future.
- Primary caregivers who try to do it all on their own and overextend themselves chronically are putting themselves at higher risk of their own health emergency!
- If you are a primary caregiver and you are giving up activities you enjoy, feeling short tempered, depressed, overwhelmed or isolated then it is time to get help!
Pro-tip: People with dementia need skilled caregivers, not companions or community support workers. Look for certified or registered caregivers who have completed the specific training for working with dementia.