Caregiver Blog

Caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s is one of the most heart-wrenching and challenging experiences a person can undergo. The person you once knew, the person you once loved, seems to be slipping away before your eyes. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and feel lost in this journey, especially when the changes in your loved one’s personality, memory, and behavior feel so out of your control.

But, even though the disease may be stealing pieces of who they once were, the truth remains: this is still your loved one. The person you care about is still in there. Patience, compassion, and small moments of connection are your strongest tools as a caregiver.

If you are a caregiver, know that you are not alone and you are doing something extraordinary by providing care, love, and dignity to someone who needs it. But you must also take care of yourself. It’s essential to set boundaries, get support, and take time for your own health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you navigate this difficult but meaningful path.

1. Don’t Argue About What’s Incorrect

One of the first things you will likely notice as a caregiver for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s is that they may say things that aren’t true or they may repeat questions over and over. This can be frustrating and emotionally draining for both you and them.

However, it’s important to remember that arguing or correcting them may only cause anxiety or confusion. Instead of arguing, offer reassurance or simply redirect the conversation. For instance, if they believe a loved one is coming over for a visit but you know that isn’t true, you might say something like, "I know you’re excited about seeing Mary, but they aren’t able to come right now. How about we sit down and look through a photo album together?" Gently steering the conversation without confrontation helps maintain peace and avoid unnecessary stress.

2. Provide Gentle Reminders and Redirection

Rather than pointing out mistakes or confusion, try offering gentle reminders. For example, if your loved one can’t remember what day it is, you can say, “It’s Tuesday today,” and offer a small distraction or activity they enjoy. If they’re becoming agitated, calmly suggest a different activity or bring up a positive memory that you know will engage them. Using soothing tones, showing affection, and making sure they feel heard and loved can be incredibly grounding for someone with dementia. When using redirection, it’s important to keep your approach calm, patient, and kind. Avoid sounding like you're correcting them.

3. Lean on Support Groups and Caregiving Organizations

Caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be isolating. You may feel like you’re the only one going through it, but it’s crucial to remember that there are many people who understand what you’re going through. Support groups can offer a space to connect with others facing similar challenges. These communities can provide emotional support, helpful tips, and even specific advice on managing daily care. Organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association offer resources, respite care options, and educational materials that can guide you.

4. Safety-Proofing the Home

As the disease progresses, your loved one may struggle with understanding what is safe or not. You’ll want to assess the living space for anything that could pose a danger.

• Stoves and hot surfaces: A common risk in homes with dementia patients is leaving the stove or oven on, which can lead to fires. It’s a good idea to use stove knob covers, or even install an automatic stove shutoff device.
• Sharp objects: Kitchen knives, scissors, and other sharp items should be stored out of reach or locked away.
• Medication: Ensure that medications are locked away to prevent misuse or accidental overdose.
• Lighting: Ensure hallways and staircases are well-lit to reduce the risk of falls.
• Clutter: Keep floors clear of clutter to minimize tripping hazards.

The goal is to create a space that allows your loved one to feel comfortable and independent while also keeping them safe.

5. Managing Wandering Behavior

Dementia patients often experience wandering, which can be very frightening for both the patient and the caregiver. They may wander because they are confused, anxious, or trying to get ‘somewhere’.

• Bells or Alarms: Attach door alarms or bells to entrances to alert you if they are trying to leave the house.
• Locked Doors: Consider installing locks that are out of sight and out of reach or ones that are harder for them to operate.
• Tracking Devices: You might also consider a GPS-enabled tracking device in case they do wander outside.

It’s important to stay calm if your loved one does wander. Know that this behavior is not deliberate and that they may not understand the danger they’re in.

6. Use Technology to Assist in Care

While traditional medical alert systems are helpful for some, they might not be as effective for individuals with dementia. Since dementia patients may not know how to activate such devices in an emergency, consider using alternatives that are tailored to their needs.

For example, Care Bloom is a device that has been designed with dementia and Alzheimer’s patients in mind. It monitors their precise location within the home and alerts caregivers if they’re at risk of harm from entering restricted areas or leaving the home, all while being easy to use. Since Care Bloom leverages a watch to track location and vitals, dementia and Alzheimer's patients were less likely to remove it than other medical devices or monitors.

In Conclusion…

Caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s is an emotional and demanding journey. The person you love is still there, but their needs and behaviors are constantly changing. By practicing patience, offering gentle redirection, seeking support, ensuring safety, and leveraging technology, you can make this difficult time a bit easier for both of you.

Remember, you can’t do this alone. Reach out for help when you need it. Above all, take time to care for yourself, too. You are doing something profoundly important, and your well-being matters just as much as your loved ones.

By finding the right balance, you can create a safe, loving, and comfortable environment for your loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s—and preserve your own health and peace of mind along the way.