Caring for Elderly Parent with Memory Care Issues

Caring for an elderly parent who is suffering from memory loss and dementia is not an easy task and not something that everyone can handle. When the symptoms just start manifesting, they are usually taken as ones that are very typical to old age. And often that is precisely what happens.

When you finally identify, he needs help

Over a period of time, if your parent is suffering from memory loss issues or is in the first stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia, the symptoms become more pronounced. And it is during this period and as the disease progresses when things are fragile, and you must handle them with care. You start wondering whether you must shift your parent to dementia care facilities or keep him at home.

Let us find out, what approach you must take so that it becomes easier for you to manage the adverse situations if any, better. And most importantly, make sure that an untoward situation does not arise.

Tips for better management and care for patients with memory loss issues

If you try to implement the following behavioral patterns or approach, you can manage a lot with ease. Check these out.

1. Avoid argument with people suffering from dementia

A person who is suffering from dementia or memory loss issues will not remember what you said when there was an argument. It is because their brains usually malfunction and is not able to retain or register any incident for more extended periods.

Most importantly, if they are saying things that are irrelevant or make no sense do not try to clarify or justify. It will just fall on deaf ears. He needs patience hearing even if it makes no sense.

2. Take the utmost care when starting new medicines

You will come across many medicines that will make dementia and memory loss symptoms worse. It is common, mainly because these medicines will act on the brain and that can make the system go haywire.

As such, talk to the primary caregiver when you find that there are changes in behavior on starting a new medicine.

3. Avoid conflicts and disputes

The best way to keep them calm and treat them effectively is to believe what they are saying and not dispute it. It can be better understood with the help of an example.

For instance, people who have dementia believe things that may not be true or exist. They might think they are still school kids or might have to appear for an exam and offer weird explanations.

Instead of objecting and trying to offer your own reasoning, opt for “validation therapy.” It is responding to their version of the story and keeping them composed and calm.

There are so many other ways to make them feel at home and calm them and offer respite. In fact, if you follow such tips, you will not have to shift them to any assisted living facilities immediately.

Remember, they are at your mercy, and they are like innocent children and require your attention and love at every step. Caring for them and loving them will not just keep them happy but you experience a lot of satisfaction too in the process.