Supporting Seniors with Dementia: Resources for Fox Cities and Green Bay Area Families
According to Columbia University Irving Medical Center, one in 10 older Americans have dementia. While dementia and cognitive decline affect seniors in different ways, many dementia patients can experience:
● Memory loss
● Difficulty concentrating, reasoning, or problem-solving
● Confusion and disorientation
● Communication challenges
● Poor coordination
● Anxiety and depression
● Personality changes
Caring for older adults with dementia is certainly not easy. Luckily, many resources are available to loved ones, including:
● Alzheimers.gov
●Family Caregiver Alliance
● National Institute on Aging
● Local Green Bay, WI, senior centers, like the Brown County Senior Center and The Salvation Army KROC Center
● Dementia Care Solutions can provide consulting, coaching and support services to family members. Right at Home is one of the sponsors of Dementia Care Solutions Free Workshops that are held in the Fox Cities and Green Bay areas for anyone to attend.
Families can also take proactive measures to make caring for dementia patients easier. Here are three tips for supporting seniors with dementia in Fox Cities and the Green Bay area.
1. Be Patient and Never Argue
Arguing with a senior with dementia is fighting an uphill battle. Dementia significantly impairs the brain, and patients cannot reason or think like others. Conflicts can quickly cause them to become upset. As such, families should do everything possible to avoid stress and agitation.
Patience and listening are key to preventing arguments. If you feel like you’re going to lose your cool, step away and give yourself a moment to recollect your thoughts and manage your emotions.
2.Maintain a Safe Space
Dementia patients have an increased risk of injuries and accidents due to their impaired decision-making and memory. Maintaining a safe, secure environment will mitigate dangerous situations. Some steps relatives can take to ensure their elderly loved one’s safety include:
● Keeping hallways, pathways, staircases, and entryways well-lit and clear of fall hazards
● Buying furniture with rounded edges
Recognizing potentially hazardous scenarios and taking the proper precautions are equally essential. Older adults with dementia may wander or put themselves and others at risk behind the wheel or in the kitchen. However, limiting these activities can make seniors feel like they’ve lost their independence.
To avoid arguments while keeping them safe, families should have an open, honest, and non-confrontational conversation with a dementia patient as soon as possible. Remember to closely listen to them and be sensitive to their thoughts and emotions.
3. Know When It’s Time to Ask for Help
Family members may lack the experience or resources to care for a senior with dementia properly. This can take a toll on their mental and emotional health. Loved ones should never feel ashamed asking for help when help is needed.
In-home caregiving solutions, like the services provided by Right at Home, can ease the burden while keeping seniors with dementia safe.
In-Home Specialty Care for Fox Cities Green Bay area Seniors
Right at Home is proud to provide personalized care programs to seniors throughout Fox Cities and the Green Bay area. Our caregivers can keep seniors safe and comfortable by assisting them with light housekeeping, transportation, medication management, meal planning and preparation, and more.
Contact us today at (920) 257-4667 for more information.
