Have you ever woken up from a dream feeling totally disoriented? The dream seemed so real, and it takes a moment to regain your bearings. For someone with dementia, this confusion is part of everyday life. Our goal in providing care for someone with Alzheimer’s is to help provide as much stability as possible, and one of the best ways to accomplish this is by using a routine.
How Can Routine Assist Someone With Dementia?
Short-term memory loss makes it challenging for someone with dementia to learn and remember new things. A familiar routine helps build self-confidence, reinforce a sense of independence, and reduce anxiety.
To create the most comfortable routine for an older adult with dementia, try the following:
- Follow their lead. Keep in place any routines the older adult already has established: a morning shower before breakfast, meals at the same seat at the table as always, an afternoon television program, a walk after dinner, etc.
- Adjust as needed. Over time, as the disease progresses, the person’s ability level will change, which makes it harder to accomplish parts of their routine. The objective should be to always make an effort to provide as many opportunities for independence as you are able, even though modifications are needed.
- Make it meaningful. Include time every day for responsibilities that promote the person’s sense of purpose and self-worth, in accordance with their abilities: folding laundry, sorting papers, mixing a salad, etc.
- Choose activities that are connected with lifelong interests. Think through the individual’s specific interests and incorporate those in some manner into their routine: fishing, music, gardening, knitting, etc.
Of course we realize that life does not always let us adhere to a predictable routine. Family caregivers need and deserve to take time off from their care duties for self-care, whether just a few hours every week or an extended vacation. It can be helpful for the individual in your care to have a respite caregiver step in so you can safely take some time away, incorporating the caregiver into the routine regularly. This will make it simpler, knowing the senior is already familiar and comfortable with their professional caregiver.
The very best dementia care calls for specialized training and expertise. Our dementia caregivers are specialists in providing creative, patient care and easing the difficult symptoms of the disease. We’re here with as much or little assistance as you need. Contact us any time by email or call us at (630) 323-4665 for a complimentary in-home consultation to find out more information.