Dementia Care Tips

More than 5 million people are living with a form of dementia in the U.S. and Canada today. Homewatch CareGivers understands that dementia brings endless changes, challenges and concerns to not only the person diagnosed, but the entire family. Browse through our Dementia Care Tips to find hands-on, no-nonsense advice for families living with dementia. Look for tips related to preserving skills and function, coping with symptoms, and preventing caregiver burnout.

Section 1: Preserving Skills and Function

For individuals living with dementia, quality of life is largely determined by the environment. These helpful tips will offer small environmental changes that can yield a positive impact.

 

Mealtime Success	Object Identification & Manipulation
Driving Skills & Safety	Executive Function & Abstract Thinking
The Music Connection	Face and Name Recognition
Memory Recall	Attention Span & Concentration
Personal Hygiene	Suggested Activities for Stage 1 Alzheimer's
Physical Exercise	Suggested Activities for Stage 2 Alzheimer's
Daily Journal	Household Chores and Upkeep
Tasks of Daily Living	Verbal Skills

Section 2: Coping with Symptoms

There are many tools and coping strategies available for those diagnosed with dementia and their family members. These practical tips can create awareness of possible triggers, and provide coaching for family and friends when symptoms occur.

 

Refocus Attention	Structure and Routine
Personality Changes	Agitation and Aggression
The 5 Rs	Anxiety & Depression
Wandering	Rummaging, Pillaging & Hoarding
Catastrophic Reactions	Sleep Disturbances and Insomnia
Time & Place Orientation	Injuries and Medical Emergencies
Loss of Initiative	Handling Mood Swings
Loss of Focus	Coping with Personality Changes
	Demonstrating How Music Can Help

Section 3: Support for Caregivers

The emotional and psychological impact of caring for individuals living with dementia can create severe physical and emotional issues for the family caregiver. These insightful tips will provide new perspective and skills for managing the care of a loved one.  

 

Never Stands Still	Acceptance Versus Denial
The Long Goodbye	Verbal Communication
Anxiety & Depression	Therapeutic Fibbing and Diversion
Holidays and Traditions	Alzheimer's Association Resources
THINK PEACE	Home Safety
Stress-Induced Illness	Anti-Stress Diet for Caregivers
Support Groups for Caregivers	Safety Precautions
Hospice	Explaining, Excusing, and Defending
In-Home Assistance vs. Nursing Home	The 10 Warning Signs of Stress

Visit our resources library for more helpful information on how to best care for your loved ones.

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