Article Focus: Dealing with DementiaLife Transitions Series is a group of Posted Articles which will help all of us to understand the Transitions which eventually happen to us all. We will ask and attempt to discuss What transitions do older adults face?
Dealing with Dementia
There are things that must be remembered when dealing with a person who has dementia. These will vary somewhat through the stages. Always remember that you are dealing with a person, an individual, who is losing their independence. This is frightening and frustrating to them; especially in the first stages. Make suggestions; do not give orders. Do not point out small failures like not turning off the stove, not flushing the toilet, not getting to the bathroom on time, just anything that should be done but is not. These are indications of their needing assistance and will give you an idea of the level of their dementia and the amount of decline. Simply go behind them and make the corrections that are needed. If they notice that you are doing this cover with everyone makes mistakes, no one is perfect and it is taken care of. As dementia progresses the person will remember less and less. They may not remember your name or what you have done for them but they will always remember how you made them feel. If you made them happy you will always be met with a smile. If you made them unhappy you will not be trusted and will be treated accordingly. Memories die but feelings remain. Remembering this will keep you on track.
Read more from LaVona: Ultimate Senior Living Resource Guide >>
Here are more resources to help you learn more about Dementia and this Life Transition:
- CDC looks at Dementia as a possible Life Transitions – What Is Dementia?
- Golden Placements Adult Services – Life Transitions Short Term Memory Loss
LaVona Tomberlin, Senior Placement Specialist
LaVona is a Senior Placement Specialist at GPS. She loves writing about improving the lives of Elderly working in private care and in-home care for over 36 years. Geriatrics, Memory Care. Plus holds Master of Psychology Behavioral Health with the goal of advocating for those who needed a voice. Helping the families to make good decisions and to relieve their stress in uncertain times makes life worthwhile.
