Dementia is a brain disorder caused by changes or damage to the brain, making it hard for people to remember, learn, and communicate. There are many symptoms people with dementia can experience, and it is good for caregivers to know how to handle themselves during these situations. When providing care for people with Dementia, it is critically important that the caregiver understands the symptoms, ensures safety and treats the patient with compassion.

Caring for People with Dementia

The changes in the brain can make it very hard for people with Dementia to take care of themselves. The changes in the brain will often also cause changes in the person’s mood and personality, which can make caring for people with dementia much more challenging. Over time, people with Dementia may begin to strike out or may become scared and act clingy or childlike.

Understanding the Symptoms to Improve Care

It can be very easy for a family caregiver to become frustrate and upset with a dementia patient. To assist the caregiver in helping the dementia patient, below are descriptions of symptoms with our best recommendations on what to do:

• Memory Loss: It is important to be patient when the person is having difficulty remembering how to do simple tasks.
• Loss of Words: Be patient and use yes/no questions when the person is having difficulty using or understanding words.
• Being Lost: Be patient and ready to assist the person when they get lost, even in very familiar places.
• Agitation: Reassure the dementia patient rather than arguing with him/her. Attempt to schedule the day in such a way as to limit the number of difficult situations that may lead to agitation.
• Hallucinations: Do not argue with them if they see or hear things that are not there. However, if the hallucination is frightening, attempt to distract them by involving them in a pleasant activity.
• Difficulty Sleeping at Night: Place a clock where they can see what time it is. Open curtains so they are aware of daytime and nighttime. Attempt to limit caffeine intake and daytime naps.  Encourage exercise or activity during the day. Make the bedroom calm and peaceful at night. Use a nightlight because complete darkness often adds to confusion.
• Wandering: Supervise for safety. Sometimes it is okay to allow wandering in a safe place with supervision. To remind the patient not to use a certain door, it may be helpful to place a stop sign on the door or hide the doorknob by placing a strip of cloth over it.

Dementia can be caused by strokes, tumors, head injuries or diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease or Parkinson’s Disease. When providing care for the patient with Dementia it is critically important that the caregiver ensures the safety of the patient while consistently treating them with respect and compassion.

For more information about Dementia or support groups, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website or call them at 1-800-438-4380.