Recognizing and Managing Dementia and Alzheimer’s in Loved Ones

As we age, it’s natural for memory to occasionally slip. However, when forgetfulness and confusion begin to disrupt daily life, it could be a sign of dementia. Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Recognizing the signs early and learning how to manage the condition can make all the difference in providing quality care for your loved one.

Early Signs of Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Dementia affects everyone differently, but some common symptoms can help you recognize the onset of the condition. Early signs include:

1. Memory Loss - Struggling to remember recent events, names, or where items were placed.
2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks - Challenges with routine activities like cooking, paying bills, or navigating familiar locations.
3. Confusion with Time or Place - Becoming disoriented, not knowing where they are, or how they got there.
4. Misplacing Items - Frequently losing things and finding them in unusual places, such as putting the keys in the refrigerator.
5. Mood and Personality Changes - Becoming easily upset, withdrawn, or experiencing sudden mood swings.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis.

Managing Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Living with dementia requires patience, understanding, and adaptability. One effective approach to managing care is using the 5 Rs of Dementia Care:

1. Remain Calm - Stay composed, even when the person with dementia is upset or confused.
2. Respond to the Person’s Emotions - Acknowledge their feelings, even if their perception of the situation is incorrect.
3. Reassure - Offer comfort and remind them they are safe.
4. Remove Yourself - Step away if the situation becomes too intense or you need a moment to gather yourself.
5. Return and Try Again - After a brief pause, revisit the task or conversation calmly.

By incorporating these techniques, caregivers can better manage challenging behaviors and provide a more supportive environment.

How Homewatch CareGivers Can Help

One of our strong points at Homewatch CareGivers is supporting families facing dementia and Alzheimer’s. We train our caregivers to fully understand the nuances of dementia care, employing techniques that promote calm, safety, and understanding. Here’s how we can assist:

• Tailored Dementia Care- We create personalized care plans that consider the needs of each individual with dementia. This includes helping with daily tasks, offering companionship, and ensuring a safe environment.
• The 5 Rs of Dementia Care - Our caregivers are trained in the 5 Rs of dementia care, providing practical support for managing difficult behaviors with empathy and patience.
• Respite Care- We offer respite care, allowing family members to take a well-deserved break while making sure their loved one receives professional, compassionate care.

Homewatch CareGivers strive to improve the quality of life for those living with dementia and their families. Our services are designed to meet both the physical and emotional needs of our clients, assuring that they remain comfortable and safe in their homes. Whether you need ongoing support or temporary relief, we are here to help.

For more information about our dementia care services, please visit our Boise, Twin Falls, Nampa, or Pocatello locations, or explore our resources on dementia care on our website.

We serve the following cities:

Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, Nampa, Caldwell, Kuna, Mountain Home, Middleton, Parma, Homedale, Twin Falls, Jerome, Buhl, Kimberly, Filer, Wendell, Gooding, Pocatello, and Burley.