How to Care for An Elderly Person With Dementia

Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are the most widespread and prolific diseases among our older generations. Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease – entire memories wiped out and it leaves loved ones unable to care for themselves. In addition, dementia is the sixth leading cause of death and there are millions of people struggling with these diseases. Moreover, scientists are expecting various forms of dementia to contribute to an astronomical and exponential number of deaths in the coming decades. Caring for a loved one with dementia can be difficult, but crucial in order to maintain peace in his or her last living days. Here is how to care for an elderly person with dementia.

First, it is important to understand that dementia affects people’s ability to complete everyday tasks. One of the biggest tasks is bathing – something most of us take for granted. If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or any other form of dementia, it is important that you help with not only to getting into the bath or shower, but also with the prevention of slipping and falling. If s/he is far along in the disease, you might also have to help with the washing itself in order to maintain daily health and hygiene requirements.

In addition, getting dressed in the morning – another thing we all take for granted – is nearly impossible for people with dementia. Just remembering how to tie shoes and button coats – not to mention getting both arms through an undershirt – can be incredibly challenging. It can be hard to believe when an elder struggles with something so simple, but by helping with this task, you can also maintain your loved one’s dignity. By helping someone look presentable, you can make a huge difference, just by giving the gift of self-esteem. Even though it might go unacknowledged verbally, everyone can definitely feel the increase in confidence when wearing a nice clean outfit.

Another important task when it comes to caring for an elderly person with dementia is helping at mealtime. Eating can be hard for people with dementia ¬and can result in some potentially violent outbursts. You have to remember that it isn’t anybody’s fault, but dementia related diseases have a way of wreaking havoc on the central nervous system. When mealtime comes around it is important that you not only make sure your loved one is comfortable with a napkin ready for quick and constant clean up, but also to physically help with getting spoonfuls or forkfuls of food from plate to mouth.

Lastly, if you really feel passionate about caring for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s, you can study to become a nurse and get your certificate. You can visit CNACertification-Training.com to find out how you can become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Not only will you be able to help the person you love, but you can also make a career out of it and help many more people suffering from these tragic diseases. No matter what, though, when it comes to caring for someone with dementia, you must be patient, caring and pour as much love into it as you can.