What Are the Concerns When Taking Care of a Dementia Patient?

Dementia is a condition that can slowly destroy the minds of sufferers. The affliction is often permanent. Diseases associated with dementia include Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis. Victims of dementia slowly lose their memory and ability to think. Caregivers provide care and support to meet the special needs of sufferers.

Creating a Familiar Environment

• Avoid loud noises and establish a daily routine.

  Individuals suffering from dementia are forgetful. Among the related symptoms are agitation, change of personality and wandering; these symptoms worsen over time. The observant caregiver responds to the patient's gradual loss of abilities and provides a familiar environment to foster a sense of security. The dementia patient is often confused and frightened by unfamiliar surroundings. In creating a comforting environment for the dementia patient develop a simple daily routine and avoid changes. Decorate floor/carpeting in uniform colors. Eliminate loud and distracting noises from radio, television or other sources.

Eating Meals

• A shared meal is better than a meal alone.

  The caregiver ensures that the dementia patient consumes meals daily. As dementia progresses, the patient requires more assistance. The patient may have problems eating. In preparing meals, establish a social setting; the patient should not consume meals alone. Find out the patient's favorite foods and incorporate them in healthy meals. Include finger foods with meals if the patient refuses eating utensils. Reduce distractions at mealtime, and serve several small meals to accommodate patients with decreased appetite.

Daily Activities and Independence

• Some patients need help bathing, toileting and dressing.

  Daily activities include toileting, bathing and dressing. The caregiver provides assistance as necessary. The dementia patient loses independence because he cannot safely make many of his own decisions. The caregiver is responsible for the patient's safety but allows the patient to make safe decisions, such as which clothes to wear, whenever possible.

  The caregiver should schedule daily activities for the same time each day and ensure that the patient has social contact. Individuals caring for the dementia patient should exclude loud noises and crowds from arranged social gatherings. As part of the daily routine, the caregiver also plans physical activities that are simple and repetitive and ensures that the patient takes prescribed medications.

Caregiver Strain

• The caregiver needs rest.

  The caregiver needs rest. Caring for the dementia patient requires patience, energy and vigilance. The dementia patient may not recognize danger, and some patients may have hallucinations or become violent. The caregiver monitors the patient, preventing wandering and self-harm. The caregiver needs to maintain her own health as well as that of the dementia patient. Support groups and other family members may aid the caregiver in coping.