Teri Sellers
The PebbleCreek Alzheimer’s Support Group is available to all residents who have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The group meets twice a month for a breakfast social and a support group meeting.
Caregivers often feel challenged and frustrated when trying to connect with an Alzheimer’s patient. They are faced with how to deal with someone with a very limited attention span and the frustration level of the patient who is trying their best but is not up to your normal.
So many husbands, wives, daughters, and sons have assumed the responsibility of caring for their loved one with dementia. A 24-hour day can seem like a week if all you are doing is answering the same questions repeatedly and supervising and caring for them. Quality of life is more than just meals, personal care, and giving them their medications. Quality of life happens when we truly connect in a meaningful way. Dementia changes how that happens but does not mean that it can’t be a wonderful part of caregiving.
Here are a few helpful ways to modify your approach to activities that can increase and improve the quality of life not only for the person with Alzheimer’s but also the caregiver.
1. Have the person help you get the activity started. They may not be able to plan and organize an activity, but most people with dementia still have the energy and desire to do things with you and help.
2. Concentrate on the process, not the result. It doesn’t matter if the towels are folded your way. What should matter is that you spent quality time together and that the person feels as if they have done something useful.
3. Be flexible. When the person doesn’t want to do something, it may be because they fear they can’t do it. Don’t force it. Try a different way, let it just happen or change things.
4. Let the person know they are needed. Ask, “Could you please help me?” Most people want to feel needed and valued, even those with dementia. Just be careful not to overwhelm.
5. Don’t criticize or correct the person.
6. Involve the person through conversation. While you are engaged in an activity, talk with the person about what you are doing. Even if they can’t respond, passive communication is still beneficial.
You are not alone. Please call me, Teri Sellers, at 602-793-0299. I will share helpful resources and information with you and add you to our email list. Our support group is an excellent way to learn more about the journey that is dementia and a wonderful way to meet others who are going through the same journey. Your information is always safe and confidential, and the benefits are priceless.