EP178: 10 Tips for Caregivers of People Living with Dementia

This Is Getting Old Podcast with Melissa B PhD

“If you aren't taking care of yourself, you can't take care of anybody else.”

—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN

Caring for individuals living with dementia is a profound act of love and dedication, but it also comes with its unique set of challenges. Caregivers often find themselves facing a tough journey filled with uncertainty, frustration, and emotional strain. In this episode, we'll talk about ways to help caregivers, offering insights to reduce stress and prevent burnout.

Tip 1: Ignoring symptoms won't make them disappear. Don't ignore signs of dementia. Early detection helps in getting timely support and planning.

Tip 2: It's never too late to improve brain health. Encourage a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental stimulation can slow down the progression of dementia.

Tip 3: Regularly review medications. Keep track of medications and consult healthcare providers regularly to avoid harmful drug interactions.

Tip 4: Avoid arguments. Instead of arguing, try to understand and validate their feelings. Responding with empathy reduces stress for both of you.

Tip 5: Use validation techniques. Acknowledge their reality, even if it differs from yours. Redirect conversations gently to avoid confusion and frustration.

Tip 6: Don't take negative behaviors personally. Understand that it's the disease, not the person, causing difficult behavior. Respond with patience and compassion.

Tip 7: Focus on what you can control. Prioritize tasks and be flexible with plans. Focus on maintaining a positive relationship rather than getting everything done perfectly.

Tip 8: Seek support from others. Don't hesitate to ask for help. Building a support network can ease the burden of caregiving and provide valuable emotional support.

Tip 9: Make time for self-care. Nurture your own well-being to sustain your ability to care for others. Make time for activities that recharge you, even if it's just a short break each day.

Tip 10: Have open discussions about future medical decisions. Have open conversations about future medical decisions and end-of-life wishes. Being prepared helps in making informed decisions later on.

Remember, caring for someone with dementia is both challenging and rewarding. By implementing these tips and accessing available resources, you can navigate this journey with resilience and compassion.

RESOURCES

Join AgeWiseU to find a get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join

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About MelissaBPhD

Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families.

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