How Can Caregivers Create A better Experience For Their loved ones?

Adjusting to the personality changes caused by dementia can seem quite daunting at times. Learning better ways to communicate can make all the difference. The way we manage our stress is crucial to the quality of our relationships with our loved ones'.
 Caring for a loved one with dementia poses many different challenges for the families and caregivers. Their ability to think clearly gradually diminishes. Communicating with others and caring for themselves becomes very difficult. Developing the skills necessary to make life more manageable is attainable when we join together, educate ourselves and share information.

Ten ways to a better experience as a caregiver.

1. stay positive, the nature of your body language can set the tone for the way your loved one responds to you. A smiling face can ease tension. Speaking in a pleasant manor and gentle physical contact will demonstrate how much you care.
2. When speaking to your loved one maintains eye contact by lowering yourself to their level if they happen to be seated. Limit distractions and speak directly to them.
3. Be concise and measured. Using short sentences and simple words. When we lower our voices we come across less intimidating and it is easier for our loved one to remain engaged in what we are saying.
4. Keep questions simple and avoid open ended questions.
5. Kindness matters! Learn to take cues by watching and waiting. Every action has a reaction... (read the signs).
6. Avoid overwhelming activities. Breaking things down into small steps aids in making goals achievable. Praise will give your loved one a sense of accomplishment. Most of all, if they are struggling assist them by showing them.
7. When you find them stuck on a certain topic (and this will happen). Redirect them with something pleasurable. (food, a short walk outdoors, listening to music).
8. Acknowledging their emotions with compassion and understanding will reassure them that they are alright.
9. Reminiscing is rewarding for everyone. In my case my Mom remembers the past much more than she does the present. For me it’s a good trade off. Listening to her stories of the good old days is like opening a new treasure box every time.
10. Having a sense of humor changes your whole perspective... Laugh, be good to them and yourself.

Credits and Recommended reading : Caring for a person with memory loss and confusion; an easy guide for caregivers, (2002), Journeyworks Publishing, Santa Cruz, CA, (800) 775-1998.

http://www.amazon.com/Caring-Person-Memory-Loss-Confusion/dp/156885059X

Bathing Without a Battle , by Ann Louise Barrick, Joanne Rader, Beverly Hoeffer and Philip Sloane, (2002), Springer Publishing, (877) 687-7476.